MLB Network pulled out all the stops in a very funny Cincinnati Reds segment about the National League Central’s first-place team operating as if a new Italian restaurant called Tito’s run by manager Terry Francona, on Francona’s birthday of all days.
“MLB Central” co-host Mark DeRosa introduced it as follows: “Cincinnati’s known for Skyline Chili, but word on the street is Francona opened up Tito’s, and it’s getting rave reviews. And by the way, there is only one cook in his kitchen. Okay?”
DeRosa says rookie Sal Stewart is serving as the maître d’ at Tito’s, adding that Stewart “has changed the landscape of the (Reds’) lineup.”
DeRosa continues by saying Eugenio Suárez is the accordion player, “keeping good vibes,” adding that infielder Elly De La Cruz is “over in the corner in the private booth … sinking his teeth into (something) spicy.” Dane Myers and TJ Friedl are, of course, “setting the tables,” with Tony Santillan, Graham Ashcraft and the Reds’ bullpen serving tiramisu for dessert to complement Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder bartending. (DeRosa points out Burns was born in Naples, Italy.)
Video from MLB Network via Twitter/X:
Did you know Terry Francona opened a new Italian restaurant in Cincinnati called Tito’s?! 🤣🍝
DeRo dives in after the @Reds picked up their fifth win in a row. #MLBCentralpic.twitter.com/SiXMPsH2Kf
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) April 22, 2026
In addition, DeRosa and Reds Hall of Famer Sean Casey examined De La Cruz’s approach from both sides of the plate:
Since 2024, Elly De La Cruz ranks in the top 10 among position players in fWAR 💪
Mark DeRosa and @TheMayorsOffice take a look at the @Reds star and his transformation from both sides of the plate over the past few seasons.#MLBCentralpic.twitter.com/LIIm9eZ33N
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) April 22, 2026
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Terry Francona’s Italian restaurant, Tito’s, is MLB Network fun