Baseball Line Drive Luncheon

We are excited to hear from Head Baseball Coach John McCormack and MLB legend, Johnny Bench!

Johnny Bench, born on December 7, 1947, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is widely regarded as one of the greatest catchers in Major League Baseball history. Over his remarkable 17-year career, he played primarily for the Cincinnati Reds, where he became a cornerstone of the team’s success during the 1970s.

Bench’s accolades include two-time National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards in 1968 and 1970. He was a key member of the “Big Red Machine,” the dominant Reds team that won two World Series titles in 1975 and 1976. Renowned for his exceptional defensive skills, Bench was awarded ten Gold Glove Awards and was selected to the All-Star team 14 times, showcasing his offensive abilities with an impressive 2,048 hits, a career batting average of .267, 389 home runs, and 1,376 RBIs. His accolades also include the Lou Gehrig Award (1975), the Babe Ruth Award (1976), and the Hutch Award (1981). In addition to his regular season successes, Bench contributed significantly to his team’s achievements, helping to secure six division titles and four National League pennants.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Bench was known for his leadership and work ethic, greatly influencing the game and inspiring future generations of players. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1989, further solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in baseball. After retiring, Bench continued to contribute to the sport as a broadcaster and a respected ambassador for MLB. His impact on the game and his status as a baseball icon remain undeniable.