The Cincinnati Reds' 2024 season has been nothing short of a struggle, and as the season winds down, it has become all too clear that October baseball will not include the Reds this year. With a current record of 73-77, the Reds find themselves trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by a daunting 14 games in the division race, a gap that has mathematically extinguished their hopes of securing the division crown.
Last year's campaign offered a glimmer of optimism, as the Reds finished with an 82-80 record. However, the 2024 season has been plagued with inconsistency and setbacks, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. Even with 14 games remaining on the schedule, the prospect of a dramatic turnaround is off the table. In fact, SportsLine has calculated the Reds' postseason chances at a disheartening 0.0%, largely due to their nine-game deficit in the National League wild-card race.
The Reds' offense, while not entirely anemic, has performed at a middling level, ranking eighth in the National League in runs scored. Their OPS (On Base Plus Slugging) holds the eleventh spot in the league, reflective of a team unable to capitalize on key opportunities at the plate. Compounding these offensive woes has been the injury bug, which has relentlessly bitten the Reds this season. The team ranks eighth in MLB both in total days lost to the injury list and in the number of players requiring stints on the IL.
Managerial Stability Amid Uncertain Times
Since October 2018, David Bell has been at the helm as the Reds' manager, navigating the team through both the highs and the lows. Despite the challenges of the 2024 season, Bell's job appears secure—for now. He is signed through 2026, providing a semblance of stability in the managerial role. However, General Manager Nick Krall has hinted at a thorough evaluation process once the season concludes. "He's got a contract for next year. As of right now, we're going to evaluate everything at the end of the year and see what we have to do to move forward," Krall remarked.
These comments suggest that while Bell's immediate future with the Reds may not be in jeopardy, adjustments—potentially significant ones—could be on the horizon. Whether these changes will come in the form of strategic shifts, roster overhauls, or alterations in the coaching staff remains to be seen.
Injury Woes and Underperformance
The spate of injuries has undoubtedly played a role in the Reds' lackluster performance. Countless days and numerous key players have been lost to the injury list, disrupting the lineup and hindering any chance of establishing consistent play. This, paired with an offense struggling to find its rhythm, has created a perfect storm of mediocrity.
Finishing the season strong, even in the absence of playoff aspirations, can often provide a morale boost and a foundation to build upon for the next year. For the Reds, the final 14 games will be an opportunity to evaluate talent, test different lineups, and perhaps even gather some momentum going into 2025.
The 2024 season will likely be studied and dissected by the Reds' front office extensively. With Krall's commitment to evaluating "everything at the end of the year," there is an air of anticipation and perhaps even apprehension about what the offseason will hold.
As the Reds aim to close out the season, fans will be looking for signs of promise and progress. Whether through the emergence of young talent or the resurgence of key veterans, the end of the 2024 season represents a crucial juncture for the Cincinnati franchise. With managerial stability under David Bell but an understanding that changes are inevitable, the Reds find themselves at a crossroads, hoping that this year's setbacks can be used as a foundation for future success.