Oklahoma City Redhawks manager Tony DeFrancesco to return to club Tuesday

HOUSTON, TX - Triple-A Oklahoma City Manager Tony DeFrancesco is scheduled to return to his club on Tuesday after undergoing successful cancer treatments during the opening weeks of the season.

DeFrancesco underwent cancer treatments for approximately six weeks at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. The RedHawks are hosting Omaha on Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. Tom Lawless has served as OKC's interim manager in DeFrancesco's absence. 

"I'm feeling great," DeFrancesco said. "The treatments went well and the doctors are optimistic for a full recovery. I'm ready to go and very anxious to get back in the dugout. That's where I want to be. I'm looking forward to seeing the players and staff."

DeFrancesco was also thankful of the support he has received while undergoing treatments. "I want to thank my wife and family for all they have done for me during this time. I also can't say enough about the Astros for all the support they've given me."

"We're extremely excited for Tony," said Astros Player Development Director Quinton McCracken. "He has shown tremendous strength while going through this, which is no surprise to us. We are looking forward to his return to Oklahoma City, and I 'm sure our players, staff and the fans there are as well."

DeFrancesco, 50, has managed the RedHawks since 2011. Last season, he led Oklahoma City to an 82-62 mark, which was tops in the Pacific Coast League, despite having the youngest roster in the league. The 2014 season is his 20th as a manager overall. The former catcher won three PCL championships as manager for Triple A Sacramento (2003-04, 2007). In 2012, he served as the Astros interim manager for the club's final 41 games, guiding Houston to a 15-15 mark over the last 30 games of the season.