The Cincinnati Reds have made a significant managerial change, as the organization has decided to part ways with David Bell, who has been at the helm for six years. Bell's tenure with the Reds spanned a range of outcomes, and he departs with a managerial record of 409-456, which translates to a .473 winning percentage.
David Bell's Tenure
Despite a mixed record, Bell's time with the Reds had its highlights. Notably, he guided the team to the postseason during the shortened 2020 season, providing much-needed steadiness in the clubhouse. As Nick Krall, the Reds' General Manager, remarked, "David provided the kind of steadiness that we needed in our clubhouse over the last few seasons."
However, the Reds management felt that a change was necessary to move the team forward, particularly after a series of disappointing performances. In 2022, the Reds posted a dismal 62-100 record, and while they had a winning record in 2023, the 2024 season saw the team ending in fourth place in the National League Central with a 76-81 record.
The Decision and Immediate Future
“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," Krall stated, signaling an impending shift in the team's strategy and vision for the future. Bell's contract was set to run through the 2026 season, making his early departure a notable decision by the Reds' front office.
In the interim, Freddie Benavides will step in as the manager for the final five games of the season. Benavides, drafted by the Reds as an infielder in 1987, has been part of the Reds' coaching staff since 2019, serving as Bell's bench coach. His familiarity with the team could provide a sense of continuity during this transitional period.
Bigger Picture in MLB
Bell’s departure marks him as the third managerial casualty of the 2024 season. Earlier this year, both Pedro Grifol of the White Sox and Scott Servais of the Mariners were relieved of their duties in August, suggesting a broader trend of teams recalibrating their leadership in pursuit of better results.
Bell's Legacy
During his time with the Reds, Bell became the 62nd manager in the franchise's storied history. His 409 wins place him eighth among Reds managers, while his 456 losses rank him fourth. The numbers paint a picture of a manager who had to navigate both highs and lows, providing leadership through an era of both promise and underperformance.
While the immediate future of Reds' management remains uncertain, the organization's decision to part with Bell underscores a commitment to seeking new avenues for success. As the team turns the page, the focus will undoubtedly shift to how they can reshape their roster and strategy for the upcoming 2025 season under new leadership.
For now, all eyes will be on Freddie Benavides, as he steps into the role of interim manager, bringing his experience and familiarity with the team to guide them through the concluding games of the season.