The Cincinnati Reds are concluding their 2024 season with significant changes, as manager David Bell was dismissed following a 2-0 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. This defeat marked a low point, leaving the Reds with a 76-81 record. In light of this, the team is set to finish the season under interim manager Freddie Benavides, who was promoted from the bench coach position.
Reds president of baseball operations, Nick Krall, made the decision to part ways with Bell, citing the need for a fresh perspective to move the Major League team forward. Despite Bell’s steady leadership over the past few seasons, the team’s performance did not meet expectations, prompting a shift in strategy as they prepare for 2025.
Bell’s tenure began in 2019, following the firing of Bryan Price and the interim management of Jim Riggleman. Unfortunately, he was unable to secure a divisional standing that was better than third place in the National League Central. The highlight of his time with the Reds came during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season when the team made its only playoff appearance since 2013.
Looking ahead, the Reds possess a roster full of potential, featuring emerging stars like Hunter Greene, Elly De La Cruz, and Andrew Abbott. With this promising talent and a new voice in leadership, the organization aims to capitalize on its young core, making its offseason preparations crucial as it seeks to improve in the coming years.
