CINCINNATI —
Former Reds first baseman and 1990 World Series champion Todd Benzinger has died. He was 63.
The Dayton, Kentucky native and New Richmond High School grad caught the final out of the 1990 World Series, made Cincinnati his home, and was very involved with Reds community events.
Benzinger played three seasons with the Reds from 1989-91 and was a key contributor during the 1990 wire-to-wire championship season. He also played for the Boston Red Sox, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants.
The Reds shared a statement, mourning his loss.
“Todd will be remembered with great affection and gratitude for his place in one of the most memorable chapters in Reds history. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, former teammates and all who knew and loved him,” the statement reads.
Even after his time with the team, he stayed connected with the community, becoming a popular guest at Redsfest and other events like the Reds Caravan, Reds Fantasy Camp, and Reds Legends Remember program.
“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. 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,” said Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame Museum.
He was also a fixture in his hometown of Dayton, Kentucky, as an active youth baseball coach and mentor.