The Cincinnati Reds have decided to part ways with manager David Bell, ending his six-year tenure with the club. Bell, who was under contract through the 2026 season, led the Reds to a 409-456 (.473) record during his time in Cincinnati. His stint was marked by ups and downs, including a postseason appearance in the shortened 2020 season and a winning record in 2023. However, a challenging 2024 campaign ultimately led the organization to seek new leadership.
A Managerial Shake-Up
“David provided the kind of steadiness that we needed in our clubhouse over the last few seasons,” said Reds general manager Nick Krall. Despite this, Krall indicated that the organization felt a change was necessary. “We felt a change was needed to move the major-league team forward. We have not achieved the success we expected, and we need to begin focusing on 2025.”
Bell’s tenure saw him become the 62nd manager in the franchise's storied history, with his 409 wins placing him eighth among Reds managers. However, his 456 losses rank fourth within the same group, highlighting the inconsistent performance that ultimately led to his dismissal. Bell's departure marks the third managerial casualty in Major League Baseball this season, following the releases of Pedro Grifol by the White Sox and Scott Servais by the Mariners in August 2024.
Freddie Benavides Steps In
In the wake of Bell's departure, Freddie Benavides will step in as the interim manager for the final five games of the season. Benavides, a familiar face within the organization, was drafted by the Reds as an infielder in 1987 and has served as Bell’s bench coach since 2019.
Benavides brings a wealth of experience and continuity to the role during this transitional period. While the Reds look to regain their footing, Benavides' extensive familiarity with the team may provide some much-needed stability. The Reds currently find themselves struggling with the aftereffects of a tough 2024 season, which saw them finish fourth in the National League Central with a 76-81 record.
Recent Performances and Future Prospects
The 2022 season was particularly harsh for the Reds, as they finished with a dismal 62-100 record. However, Bell managed to guide the team to a winning record in 2023, providing a glimmer of hope for what seemed to be an improving franchise. Nevertheless, the Reds’ inability to maintain positive momentum in 2024 prompted the decision to move in a different direction.
As the Reds prepare to close out the 2024 season, all eyes will be on Freddie Benavides and his approach to managing the team. Reds fans will be keen to see how the interim manager leverages his long-standing relationship with the players and his knowledge of the organization to potentially end the season on a positive note.
Looking ahead, the Reds have their work cut out for them as they prepare for the 2025 season. With a focus on rebuilding and recalibrating goals, the organization will need to address various aspects, from player performance to tactical strategies, to make strides in the highly competitive National League Central.
David Bell's tenure with the Cincinnati Reds will be remembered as a period of mixed results, from the highs of postseason contention to the lows of underperformance. As the Reds turn the page to a new chapter, the hope within the organization remains steadfast that a new managerial direction will lead them to greater success in the coming years.