The Reds youth movement has extended to the front office. The team hired 31-year-old DeJon Watson as scouting director and 29-year-old Muzzy Jackson as director of player development.
''We have to be younger, more aggressive in the front office, too,'' Reds General Manager Jim Bowden said.
Watson replaced Julian Mock, a 28-year veteran of team, who resigned last week.
''It's a phenomenal opportunity,'' Watson said, ''with the tradition and history the Reds have.''
Jackson takes over Chief Bender's old role. Bender, a 30-year veteran of the Reds organization, was promoted to senior adviser - Major League and player development.
Watson has been an assistant to baseball operations with the Florida Marlins since 1994.
''LeJon has trained under great people with the Marlins,'' Bowden said. ''He's an aggressive, young guy who we think will do a great job.''
Jackson spent the last five years with the Kansas City Royals, the last two as assistant director of scouting and player development.
''The Royals have done great with player development,'' Bowden said. ''He understands fundamentals.''
Watson and Jackson are African-Americans, giving the Reds four minorities in top front office positions.
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