Todd Benzinger, 1990 Reds World Series champion, dies at 63

Former Cincinnati Reds first baseman Todd Benzinger died on Wednesday at the age of 63, Fox News and the Daily Mail reported. The Reds announced his passing on Thursday, according to the Daily Mail. A cause of death has not been released, though former teammate Barry Larkin said the news came as a surprise, the New York Post reported. [1][2][4]

Benzinger secured his place in baseball history on Oct. 20, 1990, when he caught the game-ending out in foul territory against the Oakland Athletics, Fox News reported. The catch sealed a four-game sweep in the World Series and secured Cincinnati's most recent championship title, according to Fox News. [1]

A native of the Cincinnati area, Benzinger was drafted out of high school by the Boston Red Sox in 1981, Fox News reported. He played two seasons in Boston before being traded to the Reds ahead of the 1989 season, according to Fox News. [1]

Benzinger had a nine-year Major League Baseball career from 1987 to 1995, playing as a first baseman and outfielder for five teams. Over 924 career games, he compiled a .257 batting average with 66 home runs and 376 runs batted in. In his post-playing career, he transitioned to coaching and managed the High-A Dayton Dragons from 2009 to 2010. [12][15]

In a statement cited by the Daily Mail, the Reds said Benzinger will be remembered with great affection and gratitude for his role in one of the most memorable chapters in the team's history. Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame Museum, told the New York Post that Benzinger remained close to the local community after his playing days. [2][4]