2006 Topps Triple Threads Relics Auto, CIN ⭐ Johnny Bench, #10/18
Johnny Bench revolutionized the catcher position.
He could hit like a corner infielder, throw like a cannon, handle pitchers, block pitches, call games, and endure the physical punishment of catching at the highest level.
He was the centerpiece of Cincinnati's Big Red Machine and, remarkably, became an everyday catcher almost immediately after reaching the majors.
For those who missed my good morning post -- Johnny Bench is arguably the greatest catcher in baseball history.
Hall of Fame: First-ballot, 96.4% of the vote in 1989.
14× All-Star
2× National League MVP — 1970 and 1972
10× Gold Glove
2× World Series champion — 1975 and 1976
389 career home runs
1,376 RBI
2,048 hits
.267 career batting average
75.2 career WAR
Holds the MLB record for home runs by a catcher (327).
In 1970, he hit 45 home runs with 148 RBI—an extraordinary offensive season for any player, much less a catcher.
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