Reds players take blame for Bell's firing: 'We're all responsible for this'

A number of Cincinnati Reds players are shouldering the blame for the recent firing of manager David Bell.

"I'm obviously bummed. I loved playing for David," Spencer Steer said Tuesday, according to Bally Sports Cincinnati.

"Awesome manager, awesome guy. ... I feel bad because I feel like we're all responsible for this."

Bell was let go Sunday with the Reds eliminated from postseason contention after a busy offseason where they spent more than $100 million in free agency.

The manager was under contract through the 2026 campaign. He was responsible for three winning seasons but just one playoff appearance during his tenure.

"We're the ones with bats and gloves," catcher Luke Maile said.

"It's up to us to execute. It's not one person's fault, but as players, you can't help but feel bad for how everything shook out."

The Reds will operate under interim manager Freddie Benavides for the final five games of the season.

Benavides said he wants the Reds to finish the campaign by "busting their tail" and hopes they "go have some fun."