Cincinnati Reds’ Search for New Head Coach: Potential Replacements for Terry Francona….
As the Cincinnati Reds face an offseason of uncertainty and transition, the search for a new head coach has quickly become one of the most pressing issues in the organization. With Terry Francona’s tenure potentially coming to a close after the 2024 season, Reds management must now consider a wide range of candidates to lead the team into its next chapter. Francona, who has been a steady hand for the team, is widely respected for his leadership and experience, but his potential departure presents an opportunity for the Reds to explore a new direction.
In this article, we take a closer look at some of the most talked-about candidates who could replace Francona and lead the Reds back into contention in the highly competitive National League Central.
1. David Bell (Current Reds Manager)
One of the most obvious potential replacements for Terry Francona is the current manager of the Cincinnati Reds, David Bell. Though not an official candidate yet, Bell’s name has surfaced as a strong possibility due to his familiarity with the organization, players, and the intricacies of managing in the MLB.
Bell has had his share of ups and downs during his time as Reds manager since 2019, but he has shown a knack for developing young talent, which has become a priority for the Reds. Under Bell’s leadership, Cincinnati has steadily improved, and with a roster full of promising young stars like Elly De La Cruz, Jonathan India, and Hunter Greene, Bell’s continuity and relationship with the players could be a significant advantage.
Additionally, Bell’s previous coaching experience with the St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, and in various minor league positions makes him a seasoned choice. Should the Reds decide to go in-house, David Bell may find himself getting a longer look to lead the team moving forward.
2. Joe Maddon (Former Manager, Chicago Cubs & Los Angeles Angels)
Joe Maddon is one of the most experienced and well-known managers in recent MLB history, and his potential candidacy for the Reds’ head coach position is one that has generated buzz around the league. Known for his unconventional approach to managing and his ability to motivate young players, Maddon’s track record speaks for itself. He famously led the Chicago Cubs to a World Series title in 2016, ending their 108-year championship drought, and has made the playoffs in several other seasons with both the Cubs and Los Angeles Angels.
Maddon’s style could be just what the Reds need to take the next step. His ability to work with a mix of veteran and young talent, along with his emphasis on innovative strategies, could help elevate the Reds to a new level. However, Maddon’s tendency to push the boundaries of traditional baseball wisdom might not always align with the Reds’ organizational culture, making his candidacy more complicated than it might first appear.
3. Bud Black (Manager, Colorado Rockies)
Bud Black, the current manager of the Colorado Rockies, is another potential candidate to consider for the Reds. Known for his calm demeanor and consistent leadership, Black has a proven ability to handle difficult situations and manage teams in challenging circumstances. He has been the Rockies’ manager since 2007 and has led the team to several playoff appearances, including a World Series berth in 2007.
Though his tenure in Colorado has not been without its difficulties, particularly with the team’s struggles in recent years, Black’s experience in the NL West could translate well to the NL Central. His ability to get the most out of his players, especially in a smaller market, would resonate with the Reds’ front office, which values developing homegrown talent and maximizing player potential. Black’s knowledge of pitching—his career as a left-handed pitcher gives him an edge in this department—could also be an asset for a Reds team looking to bolster its pitching staff.
4. Craig Counsell (Manager, Milwaukee Brewers)
Craig Counsell has quietly built one of the most successful managerial careers in recent years, leading the Milwaukee Brewers to multiple playoff appearances and helping to turn the team into a perennial contender. Known for his strong communication skills and ability to adapt to changing circumstances, Counsell would bring a pragmatic approach to managing the Reds.
Counsell’s success with the Brewers has largely been predicated on his ability to maximize the potential of his roster, especially with limited resources. The Reds would benefit from his knack for identifying key matchups, utilizing bullpen strategies, and making timely in-game decisions. He also has a reputation for fostering strong relationships with his players and staff, something that could be crucial in a Reds clubhouse full of young talent.
While it’s unclear whether Counsell would consider leaving the Brewers, who are likely to compete for postseason spots in the years ahead, his success in Milwaukee has made him one of the hottest names in managerial circles.
5. Mark DeRosa (Current MLB Network Analyst & Former Player)
Mark DeRosa, currently an analyst for MLB Network, has garnered increasing attention as a potential managerial candidate in recent years. DeRosa’s extensive playing career, which included stints with several teams including the Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs, and San Francisco Giants, gives him a strong understanding of what it takes to succeed at the MLB level.
While he has not yet managed a major league team, DeRosa’s work as a commentator and analyst has made him a prominent voice in the baseball world, and he has frequently been praised for his sharp baseball insight. With his player-friendly approach, DeRosa could have success building a strong, cohesive clubhouse while navigating the challenges of modern-day baseball. Many of the best MLB managers have transitioned from being media personalities or former players, and DeRosa’s candidacy is one that could resonate with Reds ownership, given the team’s younger core.
6. Alex Cora (Manager, Boston Red Sox)
While Alex Cora is currently under contract with the Boston Red Sox, there is no denying the managerial acumen he brings to the table. Cora led the Red Sox to a World Series title in 2018 and has been lauded for his innovative strategies, especially with regard to analytics and player development. His leadership helped turn around a Red Sox team that had been faltering in the years prior to his arrival.
Though Cora’s contract with Boston could be an obstacle in his pursuit of another managerial job, should he become available, he would be one of the top candidates on the Reds’ list. His emphasis on data-driven decision-making and his ability to manage a clubhouse could help elevate Cincinnati’s team, particularly with the amount of young talent currently on the roster. However, a potential move to Cincinnati may be contingent on whether the Reds can secure his release from the Red Sox.
Conclusion: Who Will Lead the Reds in 2025?
The future of the Cincinnati Reds is bright, with a promising roster filled with young talent and potential. As the organization looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, finding the right manager to continue developing that talent and leading the team back into playoff contention will be critical.
Terry Francona’s potential departure is still a story that’s unfolding, and while there are several viable replacements, it will ultimately be up to the Reds’ front office to make the best decision. From in-house candidates like David Bell to experienced managers like Joe Maddon and Bud Black, or even rising stars like Mark DeRosa, the Reds have no shortage of options. The next few months will be crucial as the Reds weigh their options and seek to secure a manager who can lead them into a new era of success.
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