CINCINNATI -- Not much has gone right for Terry Francona and the Cincinnati Reds the past couple weeks. Despite losing six of seven and being a season-tying 10 games under .500, Francona was encouraged with reports that team president Nick Krall and general manager Brad Meador are expected to return next season.

"I value especially, maybe at my age now, the people," Francona said before Monday's 4-1 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Francona has credited Krall and Meador for getting him to end his one-year retirement. He also appreciated their temperament during a difficult season.

Francona is 11th on MLB's managerial win list with 2,103. He needs 23 to surpass Joe McCarthy and move into the top 10. After leading the Reds to a wild card last season, Francona faces only his third last-place finish in 25 years and first since 1999 with Philadelphia.

The Reds (70-80) have gone 14-22 since winning 13 of their first 19 after the All-Star break. Hunter Greene had Tommy John surgery last month and isn't expected back until 2028. Slugger Eugenio Suárez has struggled with a .213 average and 24 home runs. Bright spots include Sal Stewart, favored for NL Rookie of the Year, and Elly De La Cruz, having a career year with a .284 average and 27 home runs.

Krall took the blame for the struggles Sunday. "Obviously, it all comes back on me," he said.