Reds hire Bill Bavasi

Bill Bavasi, fired as the Mariners' general manager on June 16, was hired today by the Cincinnati Reds as a special assistant to Walt Jocketty, the team's president and general manager.

Bavasi, 50, will advise and assist Jocketty in matters involving the front office, major-league personnel and scouting, according to a team news release.

"We're excited Bill has joined our organization," Jocketty said in a statement. "Over his career of more than 30 years, he has worked in almost every facet of baseball operations. We will benefit from his experience and insights."

Bavasi was hired by the Mariners before the 2004 season. They finished last in the AL West his first three years before winning 88 games and placing second in 2007, raising expectations for this year. But the Mariners struggled to a 24-45 record when he was fired after a three-game sweep by the lowly Washington Nationals.