In a significant move, the Cincinnati Reds have decided to part ways with manager David Bell after a six-year tenure. The decision comes amidst a rollercoaster period for the franchise, which saw moments of promise followed by seasons of struggle. Bell, who had a managerial record of 409-456 (.473) with the Reds, was under contract through the 2026 season.
Bell, the 62nd manager in the history of the Reds organization, took over the reins in 2019. He made a notable impact when he led the team to the postseason during the shortened 2020 season, injecting a sense of optimism among the Reds faithful. However, the seasons that followed painted a different picture, culminating in his eventual dismissal.
A Mixed Track Record
The Reds concluded the 2023 season on a positive note, finishing with a winning record under Bell's guidance. This success raised hopes for a resurgence, but the 2024 season proved to be a stark contrast. The team stumbled through a challenging campaign, ending up in fourth place in the National League Central with a 76-81 record. This followed a dismal 2022 season in which the Reds recorded a 62-100 mark. The inconsistency seemed to be a critical factor in the decision to make a managerial change.
The Decision to Move On
Nick Krall, the Reds' General Manager, expressed mixed emotions regarding the move. "David provided the kind of steadiness that we needed in our clubhouse over the last few seasons," said Krall, acknowledging Bell's positive contributions. However, he added, "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."
With Bell's departure, attention now turns to Freddie Benavides, who will step in as the interim manager for the final five games of the season. Benavides, a former Reds draftee in 1987, has been a familiar face in the organization. He has served as Bell's bench coach since 2019, and his promotion to interim manager appears to be a natural progression.
Incoming Interim Manager
Benavides' deep roots with the Reds and his extensive experience make him an intriguing choice to steer the team, even if only temporarily. The move allows the Reds' front office some breathing room to evaluate long-term candidates for the managerial position as they prepare for the 2025 season.
The Bell Legacy
Reflecting on Bell's tenure, it's clear that his time with the Reds was a blend of highs and lows. His 409 wins place him eighth among Reds managers, showcasing his ability to guide the team to numerous victories. Conversely, his 456 losses rank fourth in the franchise's history, underscoring the prolonged periods of struggle during his tenure. Despite the mixed results, Bell's influence on the roster and his role in nurturing young talent remain noteworthy.
The Larger Context
Bell is the third managerial casualty of the 2024 season, joining Pedro Grifol of the White Sox and Scott Servais of the Mariners, both of whom were relieved of their duties in August. This trend highlights a broader theme within Major League Baseball: the constant search for a managerial formula that can lead to consistent success. For the Reds, the focus now shifts to identifying a leader who can bring stability and a winning culture back to Cincinnati.
As the Reds bid farewell to David Bell, the organization and its fans are left to ponder what the future holds. While Bell's departure marks the end of a chapter, it also signifies the beginning of a new era for a team eager to reclaim its place among baseball's elite. The coming months will undoubtedly be crucial as the Reds navigate their search for the next manager, aiming to build on the foundation laid by Bell and striving for a brighter future on the diamond.