CLEVELAND (AP) - Terry Francona has been introduced as manager of the Cleveland Indians, who crashed from contention this season with the worst month in franchise history.

Francona was hired over the weekend by the Indians, signing a four-year contract. The 53-year-old was chosen over Sandy Alomar Jr., who served as the club's final six games after Manny Acta was fired. Francona takes overs an Indians team that went 68-94, the third time in the past four seasons they have lost at least 90 games.

Francona led Boston to two World Series titles and five straight playoff appearances. He was not brought back by the Red Sox following the team's historic September collapse in 2011.

He previously worked in Cleveland's front office, and Francona said the chance to work again with close friends was the most intriguing aspect of managing the Indians.