In a surprise move that has ignited conversations across the Cincinnati sports community, former Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell has formally accepted a new leadership job as Vice President of Basketball Operations within the Reds’ broader athletic department. While Bell was previously linked almost solely with the baseball side of the business, this surprising pivot into basketball operations is turning heads—and raising questions Even more noteworthy is the fact that Bell sent a direct communication to Terry Francona, the current Reds manager, as his first formal move in his new executive role. Organizational sources attest that Bell personally contacted them, offering asons despite flashes of potential. Known for his analytical approach, emphasis on player development, and deep ties to the Reds’ legacy—his father, Buddy Bell, and grandfather, Gus Bell, were both integral to the franchise—David Bell maintained a solid reputation even after stepping down. His transition from dugout leadership to a front office role marks a bold new chapter in his career.
“David was the perfect candidate to help oversee our basketball operations because of his leadership, understanding of athlete development, and capacity to create culture,” stated Jonathan Meyers, President of Sports Operations for the Reds. “Although David has a baseball background, he contributes the kind of strategic planning and analytical thinking that goes beyond sports.”
In an effort to broaden the club’s appeal and involve local athletes all year long, the Reds organization recently announced the opening of a semi-professional basketball development program under its sports umbrella. Bell will lead the effort, collaborating closely with scouts, trainers, and coaching staff to find and develop young basketball talent throughout the Midwest and Ohio.
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Although Bell’s hiring was unexpected, his message to Francona was much more shocking.
Internal sources claim that Bell urged Francona to “break from tradition” and implement a more aggressive developing strategy with the current Reds team in a written document and a one-on-one phone conversation with the seasoned manager.
Bell allegedly warned Francona, “We’ve seen this organization shy away from risk far too often.” “The time to empower youth is now.”
It wasn’t a reprimand, but it also wasn’t merely counsel. Bell is obviously still very invested in the squad he used to lead, even though he is entering a new arena, and he isn’t hesitant to voice his thoughts.
Guardians, is known for his calm demeanor and player-first approach. When asked about Bell’s message during a press availability Mon
Although Bell’s hiring was unexpected, his message to Francona was much more shocking.
Internal sources claim that Bell urged Francona to “break from tradition” and implement a more aggressive developing strategy with the current Reds team in a written document and a one-on-one phone conversation with the seasoned manager.
Bell allegedly warned Francona, “We’ve seen this organization shy away from risk far too often.” “The time to empower youth is now.”
It wasn’t a reprimand, but it also wasn’t merely counsel. Bell is obviously still very invested in the squad he used to lead, even though he is entering a new arena, and he isn’t hesitant to voice his thoughts.
day afternoon, Francona smiled.
“I’ve known David for years,” he said. “He cares deeply about this city, this team. I don’t take it as criticism—I take it as passion. And I appreciate that. At the end of the day, we’re both trying to make Cincinnati a powerhouse.”
Francona continued, “I respect what David’s doing with the new basketball program. It’s a fresh start for him, and it’s going to help a lot of young athletes in this area.”
The decision to place Bell in charge of basketball operations is part of a broader rebranding and expansion strategy by the Reds. In addition to developing a basketball presence, the organization is investing in esports, youth baseball academies, and year-round community outreach programs. The goal is to position the Reds as not just a baseball franchise, but as a multi-sport institution rooted in Cincinnati.
Bell will work out of the newly constructed Richard D. Davis Athletic Performance Center in Northern Kentucky, which houses training facilities for both baseball and basketball. The center is expected to open officially in September, and early reports suggest it will be among the most advanced sports facilities in the region.
Already, Bell has begun assembling a staff of former college coaches, data analysts, and player development experts. His goal: to make the Reds’ basketball program a national model for hybrid athletic development.
“There’s so much crossover between baseball and basketball in terms of mental preparation, endurance, and strategy,” Bell said during a media availability. “Athletes today are multi-dimensional. We need to be multi-dimensional as organizations too.”
Still, many fans and sportswriters are scratching their heads at the unusual career twist.
“David Bell is now in charge of basketball? That’s like asking Phil Jackson to manage the Yankees,” tweeted longtime Cincinnati sports columnist Rick Thompson. “But hey, if anyone’s going to take a leap like that, it’s Bell. He’s always been unconventional.”
Even so, support is building among the fanbase, especially given the Reds’ recent emphasis on innovation and community engagement. Bell’s reputation as a detail-oriented leader and his family’s generational link to the city may make him the ideal face for this new endeavor.
As for the impact on the Reds baseball team, insiders say it’s too early to tell. Francona and his staff remain focused on building momentum after a slow start to the 2025 season. But with Bell watching closely from a different part of the building—and unafraid to speak his mind—the pressure may be higher than ever.
For now, Bell is embracing his new role with the same tenacity that defined his time as manager.
“I’ve always believed in pushing the envelope,” he said. “This city has incredible potential, both on the field and the court. My job now is to unlock that.”
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