This past weekend was the unofficial start of our city’s never-ending love for baseball and our hometown team, the Cincinnati Reds. More than 21,000 fans gathered at the newly remodeled convention center to pick up autographs, mingle with their favorite players and learn about the team’s plans for 2026. The city is decked out in red, and despite the freezing temperatures this week, I find myself thinking how happy I am that Opening Day is only two months away.
The Reds organization, led by Phil Castellini and the Castellini family, has put in a tremendous effort to make Reds Day, Spring Training and Opening Day truly great traditions. The innovative fan experience on the field has become more welcoming, fun and friendly throughout the season, spearheaded directly by Phil Castellini.
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However, some people just can’t get over Castellini’s comments from four years ago. I was disappointed to see clips of Xavier fans booing when the Reds and Xavier University announced their powerful new partnership. Xavier students would be wise to cheer this relationship because they understand it is an opportunity to be exposed to athletic administration and join one of the premier institutions in our region, the Cincinnati Reds.
Viewpoint: Xavier misjudged his timing and let Reds’ Castellini take the floor
What did the Red Army quietly contribute to the region?
The Red Army organization is vital to the development of our region. A recent economic impact study conducted by the University of California reported that the Reds could generate more than $1 billion in revenue for our economy in 2023. The entire ownership group is made up of people with deep-rooted ties to Cincinnati and its well-being.
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The executive team works hard every day to make this city a better place. They are actively involved in and continually invest in youth sports community groups and have built pitches across our region. The Red Army is actively involved in the region’s growth and economic development, tourism and the revitalization of the city center and banks.
They often do this stuff behind the scenes with no fanfare because Phil and Bob Castellini and their team just want to get it done.
Open Day is about hope, not nostalgia and resentment
Cincinnati Reds President and CEO Phil Castellini stands on the field before the first inning of the Major League Baseball Opening Day game between the Cincinnati Reds and San Francisco Giants at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati, Thursday, March 27, 2025. After three innings, the Reds led 3-0.
It’s time to accept Castellini’s apology and deeply regret his comments. Let’s focus on our shared love for the Reds and the hope that Opening Day brings us every spring.
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We are a baseball town and team spirit and energy are part of our DNA. Soon, the sun will be out, you’ll hear the home run fireworks, the beer will be cold, and the fans will be cheering.
Brendan Carr
Brendon Cull is president and CEO of the Cincinnati Area Chamber of Commerce.
This article originally appeared in the Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati’s love for Reds bigger than Castellini’s bad reviews
