Todd Benzinger Dies After Catching Final Out In 1990 World Series

Former Cincinnati Reds first baseman Todd Benzinger has died at the age of 63 following a battle with cancer, according to statements released by his family and the team. The announcement came on October 22nd after he passed away earlier that morning in Dayton, Kentucky.

Benzinger is best remembered for catching the final out during Cincinnati's championship run in the 1990 World Series against the New York Yankees. He played three seasons with the Reds from 1989 to 1991 before his career ended due to a broken leg sustained while playing at first base.

Born on July 25, 1961, in Dayton, Kentucky, Benzinger was drafted by the Boston Red Sox but signed with Cincinnati prior to the 1989 season. He later played for the Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Francisco Giants during his nine-year Major League career.

Beyond his playing days, Benzinger remained deeply connected to the Reds community through various initiatives including the Reds Hall of Fame Museum, Redsfest, and youth baseball programs like the Reds Caravan. He served as a manager for the Dayton Dragons in 2009 and 2010 before passing away.