Reds Coach Mike Napoli Wears 'Tito Speedo' as Team Breaks Scoring Slump

Cincinnati Reds bench coach Mike Napoli wore a custom-made speedo featuring manager Terry Francona's face, known as the 'Tito Speedo,' during a game against the Washington Nationals. The garment was originally a joke gift from catcher Tyler Stephenson to Francona during spring training. Napoli acquired it after noticing it in Francona's locker and confirming it had been washed. The decision coincided with a significant offensive turnaround for the Reds, who scored 15 runs in the game, breaking an eight-game losing streak where they averaged less than three runs per game. Napoli humorously claimed the speedo was the secret to their success, even showing it to some hitters to boost morale. The incident highlights the team's lighthearted approach to overcoming a difficult scoring slump. The event took place in Cincinnati as part of the series finale against the Nationals, preceding a major series against the Guardians in Cleveland. The article captures the camaraderie and superstitious humor often found in professional sports teams during challenging periods.