'Tito' Francona, Father of Indians Manager Terry, Dies

Tito Francona played in the majors for 15 seasons, six with the Indians.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Former major leaguer John "Tito" Francona, the father of Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona, has died. He was 84.

The Indians said the elder Francona died unexpectedly at his home in New Brighton, Pennsylvania on Tuesday night. Francona played in the majors for 15 seasons, six with the Indians.

Terry Francona is affectionately called "Tito" after his father.

It's with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of former Tribe great John Patsy "Tito" Francona, father of our current manager Terry Francona. Our thoughts are with the entire Francona family during this time. pic.twitter.com/www63kiltB

— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) February 14, 2018

Tito Francona batted .363 and finished fifth in AL MVP voting in 1959, his first season with the Indians. He led the AL in doubles the following year, and in 1961 he was an AL All-Star and led the league in singles.

Francona made his debut in 1956 with the Baltimore Orioles. He retired as a player following the 1970 season with Milwaukee.