Castellini: Reds’ 2025 Playoff Run Is Just the Beginning

The Cincinnati Reds have officially punched their ticket to the postseason. They clinched the final National League wild card spot after a dramatic late-season push.

In Milwaukee, the clubhouse erupted in celebration. Players, coaches, and even team ownership got swept up in the moment.

First-year manager Terry Francona guided the Reds as they defied expectations. They overcame a modest payroll and a tough schedule to earn a matchup against the reigning champion Los Angeles Dodgers.

Honestly, it’s a story about persistence and belief—maybe even a little bit of magic at the right time.

Reds Seal Postseason Berth with Late Surge

Not many people expected the Cincinnati Reds to end up with an 83-79 record and a spot in the MLB playoffs. But with a strong 9-4 finish down the stretch, the Reds locked up the last National League wild card position.

They got there thanks to resilience and timely performances, especially in must-win September games. The clinching moment in Milwaukee was unforgettable.

Players popped champagne and sprayed beer everywhere. Principal owner Bob Castellini and his family joined the celebration, which felt like a shared victory with the whole city of Cincinnati.

Now, fans can’t help but look ahead to the showdown with the Dodgers.

Francona’s Immediate Impact in Year One

Reds president and CEO Phil Castellini didn’t hold back his praise for Terry Francona’s leadership, calling him “everything” to the team’s success. Francona’s managerial style has always commanded respect, but his immediate impact in Cincinnati has made him a favorite among Reds fans.

Phil Castellini summed it up: “He’s the right guy at the right time.” That kind of belief is contagious around here.

Managing a roster with just a $119 million payroll—one of the lowest in the league—Francona squeezed every bit of talent from this group. Their first postseason opponent, the Los Angeles Dodgers, roll with a massive $350 million payroll. It’s a classic David vs. Goliath setup.

The Road Ahead: Facing the Reigning Champions

Now the Reds are staring down their biggest challenge yet—a best-of-three wild card series against the defending champion Dodgers. The series will test their depth, skill, and mental toughness.

Los Angeles has dominated in recent years. But postseason baseball? That’s a whole different animal, and Cincinnati’s shown it can rise to the moment when it counts.

Potential Historic Moment

If the Reds pull off the upset and beat the Dodgers, they’ll get to host their first National League Division Series since 2012. For Cincinnati fans, that would mean more than just another round—it’d feel like a real shift toward something lasting.

Keys to Cincinnati’s Unexpected Success

So, what pushed the Reds into the playoffs? Here’s what stands out:

• Managerial Leadership: Francona’s strategic approach and steady hand kept the team in close games.
• Team Chemistry: The roster stuck together, especially when things got rough.
• Resilient Finish: That 9-4 run in the last 13 games proved huge for grabbing the final wild card spot.
• Ownership Support: The Castellini family stayed visible and committed, which boosted morale.
• Underdog Mentality: Competing with one of MLB’s lowest payrolls gave the team an edge—they played like they had something to prove.

Building Momentum for the Future

Phil Castellini keeps saying this playoff berth is “just the beginning.” The organization really believes Francona can guide them into a new era.

They want postseason appearances to feel normal, not like a rare treat. The upcoming series against Los Angeles? That’s their big test.

This Reds team has already carved out a spot in franchise history. They’ve pushed past financial limits and stood tall against some tough opponents.

Fans feel the energy again. Cincinnati’s mix of strong leadership and real unity has turned the season around.

Now, with October baseball here, the Reds seem ready to lean into their underdog status—and maybe, just maybe, surprise everyone.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Phil Castellini says ‘this is just the beginning’ for Reds at outset of MLB playoffs