Guardians’ Francona out of hospital, advised to rest after becoming ill before game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cleveland Guardians manager Terry Francona has been advised by doctors to stay away from the ballpark and rest for a few days after he was hospitalized following an episode of lightheadedness before a game.

Francona, who has had significant health issues in recent years, spent Tuesday night at The University of Kansas Health System and was released Wednesday. The team said tests on the 64-year-old Francona all “came back within normal ranges.”

Francona began feeling ill Tuesday shortly before the series opener against the Royals. He was checked by medical personnel at Kauffman Stadium before being transported to the hospital. The team said his status will be determined daily.

“He’s doing a whole lot better,” said general manager Mike Chernoff, who flew to Kansas City following Francona’s episode. “He got a ton of tests last night and this morning, and everything checked out normally. So, we’re very happy to hear that.

“He’s now resting at the hotel. He’s chomping at the bit to get back. But, he’s doing OK.”

Guardians bench coach DeMarlo Hale will again handle managerial duties in Francona’s absence. Hale served as Cleveland’s acting manager for the final 63 games in 2021 when Francona had to step away.

Francona has dealt with some major health issues the past three years.

He only managed 14 games in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season due to gastrointestinal problems, and he stepped away from the Guardians for the second half in 2021 to have his hip replaced and address a staph infection in his toe.

In 2017, Francona underwent a heart procedure during the All-Star break.