03-17-2022, 02:08 PM
(03-16-2022, 02:59 PM)MileHighGrowler Wrote: I get it. I just think the Reds are missing an opportunity. With apathy toward the sport trending the wrong direction for the league, I think making an attempt now was critical. Coming off a strong Bengals season, the momentum was with the city to support baseball as well. But between the dispute and this fire sale, I think it's all going to bite the team big time.
I also don't really believe the "Cincinnati is a baseball town" narrative. It was. Hugely so. Growing up, everyone loved baseball. We all played it and followed it, collected cards, watched games and listened on the radio every night. But I don't think it is a baseball town any more. Not to many under the age of 50 at least. It's possible the Reds surprise people this year, and it's possible they'll get back to solid relevance in a couple of years and the city will be there ready to support them. But I think the passion for baseball is fading, and it's expedited when ownership doesn't seem to really care.
I don't know that they are missing, they are getting rid of guys, that couldn't win, couldn't preform (yes winker had a good year, but still barley played 100 games). The Reds can no bring up some young guys, that fans can get behind, watch develop, and heck maybe even win a few.
I also think you are right about not being a baseball town anymore, mostly because there are other entertainment things to be attracted too anymore. The biggest miss I think some have too is that more and more fans just watch on TV/Streaming. So while the stands for the game may be empty, the viewership may be greater. Baseball is behind in capitalizing on that. Support comes in multiple formats.
