Todd Benzinger Passes Away at 63
Todd Benzinger, a significant figure from the Reds’ 1990 World Series championship team, sadly passed away on Wednesday, as confirmed by the team.
He was 63 years old.
“While Todd will always be remembered by Reds fans for catching the final out of the 1990 World Series, those of us who were fortunate enough to know him will cherish much more than that,” said Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame Museum, in a statement.
Benzinger remained closely tied to the Cincinnati community, contributing generously to events at the Reds Hall of Fame and sharing his time with fans. “We will miss his kindness, his friendship, and his presence,” Walls added.
The specifics surrounding his death have not been disclosed, but Hall of Fame shortstop Barry Larkin, who played with Benzinger, expressed his shock. He recalled seeing Benzinger at an event just last summer, remarking, “He looked good. It’s just a surprise—out of nowhere.” Larkin noted that Benzinger had young children, adding to the sadness of the moment.
A native of the Cincinnati area, Benzinger was drafted by the Red Sox in 1981 right out of high school and played two seasons in Boston before being traded to the Reds in the off-season of 1988. He spent parts of three seasons in Cincinnati before moving to the Royals during the 1991 season.
One of his most notable experiences with the Reds was catching the final out in Game 4 of the 1990 World Series, a moment that secured the team’s last championship.
During his nine-year career in Major League Baseball, Benzinger recorded a batting average of .257, along with 733 hits and 376 RBIs in 924 games.
After retiring in 1995, he kept a strong connection with the Reds, frequently attending events and participating in team camps. He also served as the manager for the Dayton Dragons, the Reds’ High-A affiliate, from 2009 to 2010.
“He was such a nice guy,” Larkin reflected. “A hard worker, quiet but dedicated. He just went about his business, consistently contributing without any fuss. He fit in wonderfully with the team—a solid person all around.”
