The Cincinnati Reds have made a significant change in their leadership, firing manager David Bell after six seasons with the team. David Bell, who had been under contract through the 2026 season, departs with a managerial record of 409-456, translating to a .473 winning percentage. His tenure included guiding the Reds to the postseason during the shortened 2020 season and ending the 2023 season with a winning record. Despite flashes of success, the front office felt a change was necessary for the future of the team.
In announcing Bell's dismissal, General Manager Nick Krall acknowledged the manager's steadying influence on the clubhouse. "David provided the kind of steadiness that we needed in our clubhouse over the last few seasons," Krall said. However, he also emphasized the organization's desire to turn a new page. "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."
A Season of Discontent
The Reds' struggles over the last few seasons likely played a role in this decision. The 2022 season was particularly challenging, ending with a dismal 62-100 record. While the team bounced back to a winning season in 2023, they stumbled again in 2024, finishing in fourth place in the National League Central with a 76-81 record. This inconsistency was likely a significant factor in the decision to part ways with Bell.
Bell's overall record with the Reds places him eighth in all-time wins and fourth in all-time losses among Reds managers. As the 62nd manager in franchise history, his tenure will be remembered for its highs and lows.
Interim Management and Future Prospects
Freddie Benavides, who was drafted by the Reds as an infielder in 1987, will step in as the interim manager for the final five games of the season. Benavides has been a part of the Reds' coaching staff since 2019, serving as Bell's bench coach during that period. His familiarity with the team and experience within the organization makes him a logical, albeit temporary, choice to lead the squad through the remainder of the season.
Bell's firing marks the third managerial casualty of the 2024 season, with Pedro Grifol of the White Sox and Scott Servais of the Mariners also relieved of their duties in August. The trend indicates a growing impatience among front offices across Major League Baseball, as teams look for quick turnarounds and faster paths to success.
A Franchise in Transition
As the Reds look towards the future, several key decisions will need to be made in preparation for the 2025 season. The organization will undoubtedly be in search of a new manager who can align with their vision and lead the team to sustained success. As evidenced by Krall's comments, the Reds are focused on achieving success in the near term, making the upcoming offseason a critical period for the team's leadership and overall direction.
David Bell's tenure with the Reds was marked by both promise and disappointment. As the team turns a new chapter, fans will be watching closely to see how the next phase of Reds baseball unfolds. For now, Freddie Benavides steps into the spotlight, tasked with guiding the team through the season's final stretch and setting a course for what comes next.