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.

Collect What You Love.❤

2006 Topps Triple Threads Relics Auto, 1/1, White Whale ⭐ Johnny Bench
This card is phenomenal - a 1/1 autograph card of the undisputed greatest catcher of all-time.
Collect What You Love.❤

someone figure out what prediced HOFbetter: MLB ROY or Topps Rookie Cup/trophy

My vintage card of the week: The 1969 Topps Johnny Bench All-Star Rookie Trophy card. This is another case where I greatly prefer a player’s second card because it’s his first solo card. I’ve owned the ’68 card, but it doesn’t hold a candle to this ’69 in my eyes. Such a classic image here, with the blue of the name circle matching the blue of Johnny’s eyes. He looks poised to build the Big Red Machine.

2025 Leaf Franchise Leaders Reds ⭐️ Pete Rose & Johnny Bench #1/15
The Big Red Machine of the 1970's was fueled by these two legends.
Pete Rose - Reds All-Time Hit Leader, 3,358
Johnny Bench - Reds All-Time HR Leader, 389