Reds’ lack of fundamentals, IMO, is primarily a function of the roster.
They don’t cover all the basics. Speed, outfield defense, relief pitching, hitting lefties. These are basic elements that have been weak. Result is a .500 type team, even with good talent level.
Example: they improved the DP combo with Farmer/India and it helped. Fundamental task, covering middle infield and getting DPs. It worked with skilled players. Personnel.
I don’t blame David Bell much although no manager is safe when his team collapses down the stretch.