Reds fans outraged after transfer of ownership haven't been paying attention

Earlier this week, Major League Baseball's owners approved the transfer of control of the Cincinnati Reds from Bob Castellini to his son, Phil Castellini. This shouldn't come as a shock to anyone who's been paying attention for the last 20 years, and yet some Reds fans expressed vehement opposition to the Reds new owner.

Given Phil Castellini's unfortunate remarks ahead of Opening Day in 2022 and the team's win-loss record since the Castellini family took over the Reds organization from Carl Linder in 2006, the fanbase's frustration is understandable, and some might even suggest it's warranted. But did you truly expect anyone else to take over?

Phil Castellini was always going to take over as the Reds new owner

After years as the team's chief operating officer, Phil Castellini was named the Reds president and CEO back in August of 2024 as part of a succession plan. Bob Castellini is now 84 years old, and transferring controlling interest of the club to his son was always the plan. The elder Castellini is still likely to maintain some type of presence within the organization.

A section of Reds fans have constantly chastised the Castellini family for broken promises. Upon their purchase of the franchise, the Castellini's pledge to bring championship baseball back to Cincinnati has gone unfulfilled. Since taking the reins two decades ago, the Reds have won just two NL Central championships, and have yet to win a playoff series. In fact, the Reds haven't advanced in the postseason in over 30 years.

Among other promises, the Castellini's vowed to build one of the most respected organizations in baseball, rekindle the Reds Nation spirit, and have greater community involvement. While fans care far more about the on-field results than the team's involvement in the community, there's no denying that the Castellini's have established a tremendous presence in the city of Cincinnati and surrounding areas.

Maybe, just maybe, the Reds championship pursuits will change with Phil Castellini now at the helm. Cincinnati was able to lure future Hall of Famer Terry Francona out of retirement, have one of the most eletric players in the game (Elly De La Cruz) on the roster, and an elite starting rotation heading into the 2026.

Reds fans can be mad about Phil Castellini taking over as the team's new owner, but where are they gonna go? Hopefully to the postseason. But that remains to be seen.