The Cincinnati Reds have officially unveiled their coaching staff for the 2025 season, solidifying the structure of their managerial team as they look to build on the progress made over the last few seasons. With a focus on player development, organizational growth, and postseason contention, the Reds’ coaching staff will play a pivotal role in helping guide the team through what is expected to be an exciting and competitive season in Major League Baseball.
**Manager: David Bell**
David Bell, entering his seventh season as the Reds’ manager, will continue at the helm of the team. After taking over in 2019, Bell has worked tirelessly to shape a team that prioritizes both offensive firepower and strong pitching. Under his leadership, the Reds have become a team known for their resilience, with Bell cultivating an atmosphere of accountability and trust. His experience as a former MLB player and coach has equipped him with a unique perspective on player development and managing a diverse roster. Bell’s contract has been extended for the 2025 season as the organization remains confident in his leadership and vision for the future.
**Bench Coach: Freddie Benavides**
Freddie Benavides returns as the Reds’ bench coach for the 2025 season. Benavides has been a trusted member of the Reds coaching staff, providing leadership and stability in the dugout. His extensive experience in both coaching and player development allows him to be a valuable asset to David Bell. Known for his calm demeanor and ability to handle in-game strategy, Benavides is expected to play a key role in managing late-game situations, coordinating with Bell on decisions, and mentoring younger players.
**Pitching Coach: Derek Johnson**
Derek Johnson will remain the Reds’ pitching coach for the 2025 season, a position he has held since 2019. Johnson has been instrumental in transforming the Reds’ pitching staff into one of the most formidable units in the league. His emphasis on developing pitchers’ mental and physical resilience, alongside a focus on advanced analytics, has helped guide Cincinnati’s pitchers to better results. Johnson’s ability to nurture young talent, such as Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo, while also refining established veterans, is a key reason the Reds have seen marked improvements in their pitching performance under his tenure.
**Hitting Coach: Donnie Ecker**
Donnie Ecker, who joined the Reds in 2023, will continue to serve as the team’s hitting coach in 2025. Ecker has brought a modern approach to hitting, emphasizing plate discipline, exit velocity, and launch angle, all while fostering a team-first mentality at the plate. Ecker’s coaching philosophy centers on maximizing each player’s individual strengths, with a focus on developing an offense that can sustain power and generate runs in various ways. His work with the Reds’ young stars, like Jonathan India and Elly De La Cruz, has been a key factor in the team’s offensive growth.
**Third Base Coach: J.R. House**
J.R. House returns as the Reds’ third base coach, a role he has held since 2021. House is widely regarded for his ability to read game situations and make timely decisions, particularly when it comes to base-running and defensive positioning. His knowledge of the game and high baseball IQ makes him a key figure in the Reds’ efforts to maintain aggressive, yet smart, play on the bases. House’s communication skills and rapport with the players help ensure that the team maintains a high level of focus during crucial moments of the game.
**First Base Coach: Mike Stefanski**
Mike Stefanski, who has worked with the Reds in various coaching roles since 2017, will continue as the team’s first base coach. Stefanski has built a reputation as an exceptional instructor of fundamentals, with a strong emphasis on defense and base-running. His ability to work closely with infielders has helped solidify Cincinnati’s defensive capabilities. As the first base coach, Stefanski is also tasked with guiding runners in real-time situations, ensuring that base-running mistakes are minimized and opportunities for advancement are maximized.
**Bullpen Coach: Lee Tunnell**
Lee Tunnell will return for his second season as the Reds’ bullpen coach in 2025. Tunnell’s primary responsibility is to work with the relief pitchers, focusing on their preparation, pitch sequencing, and maintaining their mental fortitude during games. Tunnell has been praised for his ability to connect with his pitchers, offering tactical advice and helping them adjust to the demands of relief work. With the Reds’ bullpen having shown marked improvement in recent years, Tunnell’s expertise will be essential as the team looks to maintain its depth and performance in high-leverage situations.
**Special Assistant to the General Manager: Ken Griffey Jr.**
As part of the Reds’ broader organizational strategy, legendary Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. will continue to serve as a special assistant to the general manager. Although not a traditional coaching role, Griffey’s presence and insight into the game have been invaluable. His deep understanding of both the on-field and off-field demands of being a professional athlete makes him a valuable resource for both the front office and coaching staff. Griffey will remain involved in player development, working with young players to share his vast knowledge of the game.
**Other Notable Coaching Staff**
– **Quality Control Coach:** Joel McKeon will continue in his role, focusing on providing analytical feedback to both hitters and pitchers, ensuring that every player has the information they need to succeed.
– **Assistant Hitting Coach:** Danny Richar, entering his second year with the Reds, will assist Donnie Ecker in further developing the team’s offensive strategies.
– **Infield Coach:** Ben Oglivie returns as the infield coach, continuing his work to improve the Reds’ defensive efficiency, particularly in turning double plays and maintaining solid fundamentals.
– **Assistant Pitching Coach:** Danny Darwin will continue in his role as assistant pitching coach, working alongside Derek Johnson to refine the skills of the Reds’ pitching staff.
**Conclusion**
With a solid mix of experience and fresh perspectives, the Cincinnati Reds are set to enter the 2025 season with a coaching staff dedicated to maximizing the potential of the team’s players. The front office and manager David Bell have worked to assemble a group of coaches that complement each other and the team’s young talent, making 2025 an exciting season for Reds fans as the team continues its pursuit of success in the National League.
