Former Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell has made a significant move in the baseball world. After a challenging 2023 season with the Reds, where they finished 77–85 and missed the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year, Bell has now landed a new role. Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi and Ben Nicholson-Smith reported on Friday that the Toronto Blue Jays have hired Bell as vice president of baseball operations and assistant general manager.
A New Chapter Begins for David Bell in Toronto
David Bell's Coaching Journey
Bell played 12 seasons in the big leagues from 1995 to 2006, representing six different teams. His coaching career began in 2008 when he took on the role of manager of the Reds’ Double-A affiliate. He steadily worked his way up the ranks and by 2011, he was managing at the Triple-A level. After stints with the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals coaching staffs, he served as the San Francisco Giants’ president of player development from 2017 to 2018. This diverse coaching experience has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and skills.During his six seasons as the Reds’ manager, Bell registered a 409–456 record with a.473 winning percentage. He received votes for the NL Manager of the Year award twice, demonstrating his leadership and managerial abilities. Despite being signed to a contract extension in 2023, the 52-year-old Bell was let go by the Reds.Joining the Toronto Blue Jays
Now, Bell will be working alongside general manager Ross Atkins in the Blue Jays’ front office. Toronto is looking to rebound from its 74–88 campaign in 2024, and Bell's expertise is expected to play a crucial role. His role as vice president of baseball operations and assistant general manager will involve various aspects of the team's operations, from player development to strategic decisions.The Blue Jays are hopeful that Bell's experience and leadership will help them improve and achieve better results in the future. With his background and track record, he is seen as a valuable addition to the team's front office.