Memphis finished the 2019 season in second place with a 69–71 record under manager Ben Johnson. The start of the 2020 season was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic before ultimately being cancelled on June 30. Fllowing the 2020 season, Major League Baseball assumed control of Minor League Baseball in a move to increase player salaries, modernize facility standards, and reduce travel. As a result, the Pacific Coast League was disbanded, and the Redbirds were placed into the 20-team Triple-A East.