Francona closer to returning to Guardians bench

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Guardians manager Terry Francona was back at Kauffman Stadium on Thursday for their finale of a three-game series with the Kansas City Royals after dealing with a health issue earlier this week, though DeMarlo Hale planned to serve as Cleveland’s acting manager for the game because of high temperatures.

Francona was hospitalized following an episode of lightheadedness before Tuesday night’s game. He was released from The University of Kansas Health System on Wednesday after the team said that all tests “came back within normal ranges,” but he was advised by physicians to remain away from the ballpark and rest.

The 64-year-old Francona, who has had numerous health issues over the years, is expected to travel with the Guardians after Thursday’s game to Chicago, where they begin a series against the Cubs on Friday.

The Guardians rallied to beat Kansas City 2-1 in the series opener. They won Wednesday night’s game 14-1, leaving them a half-game ahead of Minnesota in the AL Central heading into Thursday’s games.

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