Terry Francona Nearly Put Indians On Top

SEE ALSO: Major League Executive Of The Year
In his fourth year with the team, Terry Francona guided the Indians into the Fall Classic and nearly into the winner’s circle.

Part of what helped push the Indians over the edge this year was Francona’s willingness to buck tradition. When the team acquired Andrew Miller from the Yankees at midseason, it would have been easy to plug him into the ninth and keep him there. In the postseason, however, Francona freestyled.

He used the nearly unhittable Miller whenever the situation dictated, and the results were nearly perfect. With a few key moves, Francona nearly put his team on top.

Major League Manager Of The Year

1998 Larry Dierker, Astros

1999 Jimy Williams, Red Sox

2000 Dusty Baker, Giants

2001 Lou Piniella, Mariners

2002 Mike Scioscia, Angels

2003 Jack McKeon, Marlins

2004 Bobby Cox, Braves

2005 Ozzie Guillen, White Sox

2006 Jim Leyland, Tigers

2007 Terry Francona, Red Sox

2008 Ron Gardenhire, Twins

2009 Mike Scioscia, Angels

2010 Bobby Cox, Braves

2011 Joe Maddon, Rays

2012 Buck Showalter, Orioles

2013 Clint Hurdle, Pirates

2014 Buck Showalter, Orioles

2015 Joe Maddon, Cubs

2016 Terry Francona, Indians