Every MLB team’s Mount Rushmore

Cincinnati Reds

The “Big Red Machine” drove the Cincinnati Reds to relevancy, so naturally, they have a strong showing on this Mount Rushmore.

Johnny Bench is considered by many to be the greatest catcher of all-time. It’s hard to argue with that, as he was equally adept at the plate as he was behind it. Bench won two NL MVPs and 10 Gold Gloves. At the time of his retirement, the latter was a record. With 389 home runs, he’s the franchise leader in homers.

Joe Morgan is the Reds’ answer to Frank Robinson. Just as the latter turned the Orioles from a good team into a World Series winner, the same can be said for the former. Morgan won consecutive NL MVPs in 1975 and 1976 as he led the Reds to consecutive World Series titles. He won five consecutive Gold Gloves with Cincinnati.

Pete Rose may have the most complicated legacy of any MLB player. However, his standing with the Reds is unquestioned as the greatest player in franchise history. “Charlie Hustle” is the franchise leader in almost every offensive category and is the all-time MLB leader in hits. He might have disgraced baseball by gambling, but for well over a decade, he defined the Reds.

Barry Larkin is a bit underrated to folks outside of Cincinnati. The 1995 NL MVP spent his entire 19 season career with the Reds. He won three Gold Gloves and nine Silver Slugger Awards. Larkin ranks third in franchise history in bWAR.

Honorable mentions: It wouldn’t be surprising if Joey Votto eventually surpasses Larkin on this list.