Reds Set Sight on Ex Rival’s Manager as Strong Contender for Vacant Managerial Role
The Cincinnati Reds may be gearing up for a major offseason as rumors swirl around two potential moves that could shape their future and boost their playoff chances for 2025. Despite falling short of expectations with a 77-85 record this season, there is growing belief that the Reds have a young, talented core capable of competing in the National League Central for years to come.
Players like Elly De La Cruz, who has emerged as the face of the franchise, and promising pitchers Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, and Nick Lodolo, form the foundation of what could be a formidable team. However, it’s clear that Cincinnati still needs a few key pieces to turn their potential into postseason success.
The first major move the Reds are rumored to be pursuing is a managerial change. After six seasons, the team parted ways with manager David Bell last week, and USA Today’s Bob Nightengale has reported that the Reds are targeting two high-profile names as possible replacements. Skip Schumaker, who won Manager of the Year with the Miami Marlins in 2023, is at the top of their list. Schumaker recently informed the Marlins that he would not be returning, making him the hottest managerial free agent on the market. The Reds view him as a prime candidate to lead their young core. In addition, former Cubs manager David Ross is also expected to be interviewed for the position, giving the Reds multiple strong options.
Hiring Schumaker would be a significant win for Cincinnati, as his leadership and experience in developing young talent would align perfectly with the Reds’ current roster. His success with the Marlins has made him a coveted target, and if the Reds can secure him, it would signal their intent to become a serious contender in the coming seasons.
The second big move the Reds are reportedly eyeing is a trade for three-time All-Star pitcher Sonny Gray. The St. Louis Cardinals are expected to shop Gray this winter to reduce payroll after giving him a three-year, $75 million contract last offseason. Cincinnati is expected to be one of the teams that will aggressively pursue Gray, according to Nightengale.
Adding Gray to a rotation that already includes Greene, Abbott, and Lodolo would transform the Reds’ pitching staff into one of the best in the National League. Gray’s veteran presence and proven track record would complement the young talent, giving the Reds a legitimate chance to compete for the division title in 2025.
While the 2024 season may not have gone as planned, the Reds are positioning themselves to make significant moves that could turn them into perennial contenders. With a managerial upgrade and a potential blockbuster trade for Sonny Gray, Cincinnati fans have reason to be optimistic about the future. The offseason is shaping up to be a pivotal time for the Reds as they look to build a team capable of ending their playoff drought.
