The Cincinnati Reds confirmed Derek Johnson is taking a leave of absence, citing personal matters but offering no further explanation. The 54‑year‑old has guided the staff since 2018, overseeing a crew that helped lower the team ERA from 4.55 in 2023 to 3.92 last season. His departure comes just before the opening series with the Cardinals.

Assistant pitching coach Matt Tracy and bullpen coach Oscar Marin will assume Johnson’s game‑day duties for the time being. Tracy, a former minor‑league starter, has been with Cincinnati since 2021 and is credited with developing rookie right‑hander Luis García into a mid‑season starter. Marin, who joined the staff in 2023, will handle relief‑pitcher warmups and mound visits. Both report to manager David Bell, stressing continuity.

Johnson’s absence forces the Reds to adjust a rotation that posted a 4.10 ERA through June, a figure that sits just above the NL average. Without his veteran guidance, the staff may rely more on data‑driven approaches championed by the analytics department. The move adds uncertainty to a campaign where Cincinnati currently trails the division leader by five games. Fans watch closely.