The Cincinnati Reds' 2024 season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, culminating in a position that leaves fans with mixed emotions. With a current standing of 73-77, the Reds find themselves 14 games behind the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers, making it mathematically impossible to clinch the division title. Furthermore, with only 14 games remaining in the season, even the wild-card contention seems out of reach as they sit nine games behind the final playoff spot. SportsLine has pegged their postseason chances at a disheartening 0.0%.
Coming off an 82-80 record in the previous year, the Reds had higher aspirations for this season. Despite showing some offensive prowess, ranking eighth in the National League in runs scored, consistency has eluded them. Their OPS (On Base Plus Slugging) tells a similar story, placing them 11th in the league. This suggests that while they can put runs on the board, they struggle with sustaining offensive momentum.
Injuries have also played a significant role in the Reds' season. They are eighth in Major League Baseball for total days lost to the injury list and likewise hold the eighth spot in the number of players requiring stints on the IL. These disruptions have inevitably hampered their ability to field a consistent and competitive lineup throughout the season.
Management Under Scrutiny
David Bell, who has been at the helm since October 2018, has seen his management scrutinized more than ever this season. Bell is signed through 2026, but his future might not be as secure as his contract suggests. Nick Krall, the Reds' General Manager, hinted at possible evaluations and changes after 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.
Evaluating the Offense
The offensive stats present a mixed bag for the Reds. Their ability to rank eighth in the National League in runs scored demonstrates that when the lineup clicks, they can challenge any pitching staff. However, ranking 11th in OPS indicates there are significant gaps in their ability to consistently convert bases into runs. This inconsistency has been a notable theme throughout the season, often putting too much pressure on their pitching staff to deliver flawless performances.
The Injury Plague
The injury bug has not spared the Reds, with the team suffering numerous setbacks. Being eighth in MLB for total days lost to the injury list means that virtually no week has gone by without a key player missing time. This constant shuffle of the lineup has undoubtedly impacted team chemistry and performance, making it difficult for Bell and his staff to find a winning formula.
As the season winds down, the focus inevitably shifts to what lies ahead. The coming offseason promises to be one of introspection and critical evaluation for the Reds' front office. The comments from Nick Krall underscore the uncertainty hanging over the current management and roster. Decisions made in the next few months could very well determine the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.
Though the playoffs are out of reach, the closing games still hold value. They offer younger players a chance to make their mark and provide the management with an opportunity to assess the talent depth within the organization. For the Reds, ending the season on a positive note could serve as a small consolation and a potential springboard into a more promising 2025 campaign.
With a storied franchise like the Cincinnati Reds, expectations are always high, both from the fans and within the organization. This season may not have gone as planned, but the lessons learned could pave the way for future success, provided the right adjustments are made. The final chapter of this season may be all but written in terms of playoff aspirations, but the story of the Reds' rebuild is far from over.