Reds Catcher Gifts Manager Speedo with His Face

Tyler Stephenson surprises Terry Francona with a custom swimsuit featuring the manager's younger visage.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:08pm

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Cincinnati Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson pulled off a hilarious prank on his manager Terry Francona, gifting him a custom-made Speedo swimsuit featuring dozens of copies of Francona's face from his playing days. Stephenson wore the skimpy swimwear under a towel and revealed it to a surprised Francona, who said he planned to wear it the next day but found it too tight to even breathe in.

Why it matters

The lighthearted prank between the Reds' young star catcher and veteran manager highlights the fun, playful dynamic within the team's clubhouse as they look to bounce back from a tough season and build team chemistry.

The details

Reds TV broadcaster Jim Day revealed the story during a broadcast, explaining that Francona is known to swim every morning, so Stephenson ordered the custom Speedo as a gag gift. Stephenson approached Francona in the coach's room, dropped a towel to reveal the swimsuit, and asked Francona if he'd like swimming lessons. Francona said he was shocked and planned to wear the Speedo the next day, thinking the 'guys would get a kick out of it,' but found it too tight to even get on comfortably.

  • The prank occurred during the Reds vs. Pirates game on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Tyler Stephenson

A 25-year-old catcher for the Cincinnati Reds who is known for his sense of humor and building strong relationships with his veteran teammates.

Terry Francona

The 67-year-old manager of the Cincinnati Reds, a two-time World Series champion who is beloved by his players for his laid-back, player-first approach.

Jim Day

The television broadcaster for the Cincinnati Reds who revealed the details of Stephenson's prank during the game broadcast.

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What they’re saying

“(He) said, 'Hey, Tito, I heard you're big into swimming. How would you like to give me some lessons?'”

— Jim Day, Reds TV Broadcaster

“I about had a heart attack.”

— Terry Francona, Reds Manager

“By the time I got it on, I couldn't even breathe.”

— Terry Francona, Reds Manager

What’s next

Francona is expected to wear the Speedo during the Reds' next team swim session, much to the amusement of his players.

The takeaway

The lighthearted prank between the young Reds star and veteran manager showcases the fun, relaxed culture within the team's clubhouse as they look to bounce back from a tough season and build chemistry for a playoff push.