Tony DeFrancesco image via Kiel Maddox/Fresno Grizzlies

The Fresno Grizzlies announced today that the team’s manager, Tony DeFrancesco, will not be returning for the 2018 season.

During his three years at the helm, DeFrancesco maintained a winning record each season for an overall 234-194 (.547) record with the Grizzlies. The run marked the first time in franchise history (since 1998) the Grizzlies completed three consecutive winning seasons.

In April, this success brought DeFrancesco to a total of 1,000 wins in the Pacific Coast League, adding to his list of achievements generated over his 23 years as a manager.

DeFrancesco was also named the 2015 Baseball America Minor League manager of the year after bringing the Grizzlies to the Pacific Coast league championship as well as the Triple A National Championship.

The following statement was realized by the Fresno Grizzlies:

“We are forever grateful to Tony DeFrancesco for his contributions to the latest chapter of professional baseball in Fresno. ‘Tony D’ helped deliver the Grizzlies’ elusive first championship during the thrilling 2015 postseason. No matter what the front office requested from the clubhouse, he was always tremendous to work with. We thank him for presiding over three winning clubs in Fresno, and wish him the best wherever baseball takes him next. We look forward to another successful season with the Houston Astros in 2018 under new leadership on the field.”

“We are very thankful to Tony for his contributions to the Astros Organization,” stated Jeff Luhnow, general manager for the Grizzlies’ major league affiliate team, the Houston Astros. DeFrancesco has been working with the Astros for the past seven years.

In 2015, DeFrancesco was diagnosed with cancer during spring training, forcing him to undergo six weeks of chemotherapy. After radiation and some rest, the manager returned to his position, where he then led the Grizzlies to their winning streak.

“Thank you to Jeff and the entire Astros Organization for the opportunities they have provided over the past seven years,” DeFrancesco said in a statement.