Guardians first-year manager Stephen Vogt has taken young team to top of AL Central

CLEVELAND (AP) — The fishing boat captain's chair that provided former Cleveland manager Terry Francona a comfortable vantage point during games the past few years was removed from the home dugout steps before the season.

It's gone, just like the beloved Francona, aka “Tito” to everyone in baseball.

That padded seat — along with his famous scooter, indomitable spirit while battling major health issues and seasons that often extended into October — symbolized Francona's successful 11-year run with the club.

It was going to take someone special to replace him.