Cincinnati Reds Part Ways with Manager David Bell After Six Seasons
The Cincinnati Reds have officially parted ways with their manager David Bell, ending a tenure that spanned six years. The decision comes despite the team's success under Bell's guidance just a season ago, closing out the 2023 season with a winning record. However, a tumultuous 2024 season, which saw the Reds finish fourth in the National League Central with a 76-81 record, ultimately led to the decision.
David Bell, who was under contract through the 2026 season, amassed a managerial record of 409-456 (.473) with the Reds. His tenure had its highlights, notably leading Cincinnati to the post-season in the shortened 2020 season. Despite these moments of promise, the overall performance fell short of the organization's expectations.
“David provided the kind of steadiness that we needed in our clubhouse over the last few seasons,” said Nick Krall, General Manager of the Cincinnati Reds. “However, 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.”
Throughout his time with the Reds, Bell managed 409 wins, placing him eighth among managers in the franchise's history. But with 456 losses, he also ranks fourth in that less desirable category. Bell becomes 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 2024.
Stepping in as the interim manager for the remaining five games of the season is Freddie Benavides. A familiar face to the Reds, Benavides was drafted by the team as an infielder in 1987 and has served as Bell's bench coach since 2019. His long-standing association with the organization makes him a logical choice to fill the void, at least temporarily, as the Reds ponder their next move.
The 2022 season had already signaled the need for introspection within the Reds' management, as the team struggled to a 62-100 record. While there were signs of improvement in 2023, the Reds could not sustain that momentum into 2024. With Bell at the helm, the inconsistencies proved too challenging to overcome, prompting the need for a new direction.
Looking back at Bell’s journey, his role as the 62nd manager in Reds history was marked by both peaks and troughs. His managerial skills, which brought stability and structure to the Reds' clubhouse, were undisputed. However, the pressure of underperformance loomed large, ultimately leading to the decision to seek new leadership.
As the Reds move forward, the focus will shift towards building a cohesive team for the 2025 season and beyond. With Benavides taking over interim managerial duties, the organization will take its time to evaluate the landscape, ensuring the next appointment aligns with their long-term vision.
Despite the challenges and eventual parting of ways, Bell's contribution to the Reds will not go unnoticed. His tenure may be defined by more than just wins and losses but also by the solidarity and resilience he fostered within the team. As Cincinnati turns a new page, the hope remains that brighter days are on the horizon.