MLB Icon Who Made World Series-Winning Play Passes Away At 63
Todd Benzinger helped Cincinnati capture a championship, then spent years giving back to the community that cheered him on.
The former MLB first baseman, who caught the last out of the Reds’ 1990 World Series sweep, has died at 63, the team announced Thursday. No cause of death was released.
Benzinger’s ties to the area stretched well beyond his three seasons in a Reds uniform. Born in Dayton, Kentucky, and a graduate of Ohio’s New Richmond High School, he coached and mentored young players in New Richmond after his playing career. He also managed the Class A Dayton Dragons in 2009 and 2010.
For the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, he remained a familiar face who made time for fans and events.
“Todd will forever be remembered by Reds fans for catching the final out of the 1990 World Series, but those of us who had the privilege of knowing him will remember so much more,” Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, said in a statement. “Todd remained close to the Cincinnati community and was a tremendous friend to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, generously participating in our events and sharing his time with fans. We will miss his friendship, his kindness and his presence in our community.”
Benzinger’s path to that championship began with Boston, which selected him in the fourth round of the 1981 MLB draft. He reached the majors with the Red Sox in 1987 and joined Cincinnati before the 1989 season.
A year later, the Reds never surrendered first place in the National League West, then capped their season by sweeping the Oakland Athletics in the World Series.
Benzinger was there to finish the job. With the final out secured in his glove, Cincinnati had its title and Benzinger had a permanent place in Reds history.
He played for Cincinnati through 1991, but his connection to the city endured long after his time on the roster ended.