The Cincinnati Reds have had a solid second half of the year, showing improvement even as they remain mired in the basement of the National League Central. That improvement has been enough for Price to remain with the Reds heading into the 2017 season.
In theory, a manager who has posted a 207-276 record in three seasons as a manager would likely find it difficult to keep his job. However, given the rebuilding status of the Cincinnati Reds, Bryan Price‘s record may not be indicative of his ability in the dugout. Apparently, the Reds front office agrees, feeling that Price offers far more than their record would indicate, as he has been extended through the 2017 season.
Price will return as #reds manager in 2017, with option for '18. All coaches invited back as well
— Mark Sheldon (@m_sheldon) September 30, 2016
Even though the Reds have struggled over the past few years, there were several positives this season. After struggling to find a way to replace Aroldis Chapman this year, they have a solid duo in Michael Lorenzen and Rasiel Iglesias. Billy Hamilton is playing more like the turn of the century player with the same name than simply being someone who could run fast. Joey Votto has continued his stardom and exploded after a slow first half. Indeed, there have been quite a few positives for the Reds.
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As Price, and his entire coaching staff, were invited back for the 2017 season, it would seem as though these improvements would be expected to continue going forward. Given that the coaching staff is, essentially, on a one year deal, it would be easy enough for the Reds to walk away should the expected improvement not happen.
Depending on the Reds moves this offseason, there may be pressure on Price and the coaches to perform in 2017. Even if a playoff berth is not in the future, bringing the Reds closer to respectability and a winning record would certainly be expected for the upcoming season.
Yes, the Cincinnati Reds have a few holes that need to be addressed. There are still plenty of questions in the starting rotation, and aside from Iglesias and Lorenzen, the bullpen is a mess. However, the offense has been much better, and if the Reds make the right moves, the rebuild may be relatively quick. That is, if Price and the coaching staff perform as well as hoped.
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The Cincinnati Reds have their manager for the coming year as Bryan Price will be retained. But can he remain at the helm when the Reds return to respectability?