All posts in Reds Hall of Fame

Reds Hall of Fame Grille preview

April 26, 2013

Just a couple of days shy of the OTHER big Opening Day this month – Kings Island’s opener on Saturday – OMGReds’ favorite amusement and water park welcomed media types, bloggers and local dignitaries to the new Reds Hall of Fame Grille – a Reds-themed restaurant located in Rivertown (if Rivertown doesn’t do anything for you, think right between White Water Canyon and the Diamondback).

The biggest thing that struck me (and my wife and mother-in-law, who are also die-hard Reds fans) was how impressive an effort it was by Rick Walls and his Reds Hall of Fame and Museum staff, providing the images and graphics used in the establishment in addition to many of the game-used items on display. Our friends at CEI Sports also procured vintage memorabilia that you’ll find at the RHOFG (or, Ar-HOF-Gee).

There are some really cool items in RHOFG. It’s too long a list to get into specifics, but it’s kinda going to blow you away. “Like Reds Hall of Fame or Green Diamond Gallery or CEI Sports or Sports Gallery blow me away?” It’s in the same ballpark. I really like the way they compartmentalized each corner into specific decades (except for the 1800s corner, which, for obvious reasons, is just 1800s). And even if you’re in RHOFG and don’t have to go to the bathroom at any point, you’ll want to at least stroll over to the lavatory to take in the fantastic Reds’ 1990 wire-to-wire tribute in that hallway.

So, while we were there for Thursday’s preview – rubbing elbows with the likes of Reds Hall of Famer Jim O’Toole (by the way, can we give a quick tip of the cap to the 76-year-old former Reds pitching great for attending as many of these events as he does!) – we asked the hard-hitting questions. Like what’s going to be shown on all of the TVs in this place. Because there are A LOT of TVs. A manager told us the Reds game will be on many of the TVs when they’re playing. When the Reds aren’t playing, some of the TVs will show Fox Sports Ohio, ESPN, and programming you’d expect to see at a sports bar. And there’s a great documentary about the Reds (that was being shown on all of the TVs during the preview event) that will be shown on a loop on some of the TVs (but trust me, it’s a long enough documentary that you will not even know it’s being shown on a loop).

So what about the food? Don’t mistake me for a foodie; I’m not going to write about the texture of the friggin’ noodles or anything. We’re OMGReds, we prefer our food in helmets. And there is – thankfully – a helmet sundae (see the photo gallery above) available that’s pretty outstanding. Our only suggestion would be to maybe try out a few other food items in helmets. Even larger helmets perhaps. Montgomery Inn pulled pork is one thing, but Montgomery Inn pulled pork in a helmet? The helmet is a game-changer. (And the same suggestion/challenge we’ve posed to the Reds. We’re ready for the next step after meatless nachos.)

We were probably most impressed at RHOFG with the bullpen dip. It’s a creamy buffalo chicken/cheese dip that’ll knock your socks off even if you’ve just been rocked by the nearby Diamondback. Everything was very good, really. Great seasoned fries covered with nacho cheese, bacon, green onions and sauce. Chicken wings, Saratoga chips, wraps. A very tasty chocolate cake garnished with (whoa, that’s as foodie as we’re going to get here) raspberries. A great looking cheesecake I was too full to try. Very impressive all the way around.

And there’s a strong beer selection. There were four on tap today, but a bartender said they’re going to change out draft options from time to time, maybe go to the ‘pen for a Summer Shandy when June or July rolls around. There are also eight bottled beers and wine available, and a bartender said RHOFG hopes to add liquor in the near future (it is, after all, a bar/restaurant).

I should add that the Diamondback was up and running during the preview event for anyone interested in riding. When we first arrived, there was actually a run with one person in the very front of the coaster. (How cool would it be to ride the Diamondback by yourself?) I was too full to ride it when we left RHOFG, but by the time we walked to our car and I was out in the parking lot, I was wishing I’d have just chilled for an extra five minutes to let the food digest and done it. We’ll be back, though, and we’ll definitely be back to RHOFG. It’s just really nice to see the way everyone collaborated and got it right, as opposed to doing it halfway and slapping a Reds logo on it and calling it a Reds-themed restaurant. This place is first class – nothing halfway about it – and Reds fans are most definitely going to want to slide head-first into RHOFG early and often, starting this Saturday.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dave Categories: Foods in Helmets, Helmet Sundaes, Kickin' It Old School, Memorabilia, Reds Hall of Fame, Uncategorized Tags: Reds Hall of Fame Grille

Rawly Eastwick address the audience in GABP's Riverfront Club
Brunch attendees listen to tales of the Big Red Machine.
Eastwick shares stories from his life in the big leagues, having Johnny Bench as a catcher and views on the current state of the game.
Salad, fruit and more was on the brunch menu
Chef's at the Riverfront Club prepare ham, pork, chicken & waffles and many other delicious items
Seriously, WAFFLE BAR.
Chicken & Waffles. Awesome.
Eastwick poses with fans after the brunch.
Each attendee left with a nicely matted and autographed 8x10 of Rawly Eastwick.

Reds HOF Brunch Series: Rawly Eastwick

April 23, 2013

OMGreds had the privilege of attending the first Reds Hall of Fame Brunch Series with Rawly Eastwick on Sunday at Great American Ball Park’s Riverfront Club. A bright, sunny mid-morning at the ballpark was a great setting to hear tales of the Big Red Machine from the soft-spoken, but entertaining Eastwick.

Before the talk, the Riverfront Club put on a fine brunch with more choices than anyone could really handle on one plate. Pork chops and delicious potatoes accompanied ham, chicken & waffles and a fantastic nacho breakfast casserole. Fruit, muffins and other typical brunch items were done with flair and were delicious, of course.

As brunch wrapped up, Reds HOF Director Rick Walls introduced Eastwick to the room of approximately 50 guests. Eastwick touched on many topics from his playing days including when he was drafted by the Reds (3rd pick by the Reds in the ’69 draft), his friendships with Reds teammates (was close with Griffey, Darcy, Zachary and others) and some general, and positive, views on today’s game. A Q&A session was included and great questions were asked, including what it was like having Johnny Bench as your catcher, to which he replied, with a grin, “I don’t think I every shook Johnny off.” Of course, with any speaking event involving a baseball player in Cincinnati, Pete Rose came up. Eastwick said he feels Rose should be in the Hall of Fame for what he accomplished on the field but it was too bad things worked out the way they did.

One aspect of Eastwick that sets him apart from other ballplayers was his artistic ability. During the off-seasons, he worked with a painting instructor. Eastwick’s mother was a watercolorist, artistic talent ran in the family, but he chose to work mostly with oils. One of his favorite memories from his days with the Big Red Machine was doing a painting for Johnny Bench and giving it to Bench as a wedding gift in 1975. Bench was very touched by the gesture, Eastwick said.

As the talk wrapped up, the recent events in Boston came up, as Eastick lives in the area. Paul Daughtery was at the brunch and wrote about that very topic.

After the talk, Rawly graciously met with fans and posed for photos. Each fan in attendance received a nicely matted autographed 8×10 of Eastwick pitching during his days with the Reds.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Former Reds, Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Big Red Machine, Rawly Eastwick, Reds HOF Brunch Series

Brunch with Rawly

April 15, 2013

Make sure you check out the Brunch Series being put on by the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum this summer. First up is Rawly Eastwick, relief pitcher for the Big Red Machine.

Here’s a rundown on the brunch from the Reds HOF…

The Reds Hall of Fame Baseball Brunch Series is your exclusive opportunity to interact with a Reds Hall of Famer or Reds Alumni on select Sundays throughout the 2013 season. Enjoy a brunch buffet in the Riverfront Club and listen as former Reds take center stage to recount their most memorable moments in Cincinnati. Each Reds Hall of Fame Baseball Brunch ticket includes a brunch buffet in the Riverfront Club at Great American Ball Park, a special program featuring discussion with a Reds Hall of Famer or Reds Alumni, a commemorative autographed item, a Field Box ticket to that day’s Reds game and a ticket to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum..

Commemorative Reds Hall of Fame Baseball Brunch Series item for April 21 is a matted autographed 8×10 image of Rawly Eastwick. There will also be an opportunity for guests to meet and pose for a photo with Eastwick.

Please meet in the Hall of Fame at 10:45 a.m. to be escorted over to the Riverfront Club for brunch.

For questions about the brunch buffet menu please contact Colin Ethier at 513.765.7921.

The price for this event is $110 for Reds HOF members, $125 for non-members. More information on Reds.com.

Breakfast and baseball? Bacon at the ballpark? Beers after brunch? Sounds like a heck of a way to spend a Sunday to us. We should be at this one, maybe we’ll see you there?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Food, Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Rawly Eastwick, Reds Hall of Fame, Reds HOF Brunch Series

Lazy Sunday: Reds HOF Induction Gala = Crazy Delicious

June 25, 2012

Reds Hall of Fame Induction Gala

Excuse the Lazy Sunday reference; I couldn’t resist. Thanks to the Reds and Reds Hall of Fame and Museum for a good time had by all at the Duke Energy Convention Center on Sunday night. A few things we learned:

Johnny Bench said Joe Morgan statue will join Bench’s outside Great American Ball Park next year. Tom Tsuchiya, the sculptor who designed Bench’s statue (who was on hand for the gala), also will design Morgan’s.
Marty is not afraid to say anything at all. He said Barry Larkin had hoped to be on hand to show support for Sean Casey at the gala, but his responsibilties with ESPN prevented him from doing so. “To hell with those people,” Marty exclaimed.

Marty also already has Joey Votto, who – don’t get me wrong – is having a great career so far … in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. After 4 1/2 seasons.

Later in the evening, Marty said to Casey: “Of all those people you thanked … Jim Bowden??? God almighty! You’ve gotta be kidding me!!”

Casey made it clear he has taken a liking to Todd Frazier because of their similarities in terms of personality/behavior and the fact that both have worn No. 21.
Johnny did a nice job with his remarks remembering several who have passed, including Sparky Anderson and Pedro Borbon, both of whom were part of (Sparky by video) the 2010 Reds Hall of Fame Induction Gala. They were missed, for sure.
Strong effort by Long John Reilly’s great-great-great-great nephew, Kirtley Kinman, who offered an impressive speech on behalf of his late relative and Reds Hall of Fame inductee despite the fact that he was recently involved in a bad accident resulting in surgery. Way to go, Kirtley!
Even if Hall of Fame Induction Gala speeches are going on and it’s not at all an appropriate time, people will still hound Brandon Phillips for autographs.
Didn’t get to take too many photos from our vantage point, but here’s a gallery from Cincinnati.Com.

Comments: 2 Posted by: Dave Categories: Reds Hall of Fame Tags: gala, induction, Reds Hall of Fame

Ever wanted to meet a Red?

June 20, 2012

Reds pitcher Arolids Chapman is scheduled a rare autograph signing at Sports Gallery in West Chester on Thursday, June 21.

Reds pitcher Arolids Chapman is scheduled for a rare autograph signing at Sports Gallery in West Chester on Thursday, June 21. (photo: OMGreds)

Well, this is your week. Seven current Reds players and 18 former Reds are scheduled to make public appearances between Thursday, June 21 and Sunday June 24. That’s 25 Reds that are willing and eager to shake your hand, get a photograph and in some instances sign an autograph for ya. Outside of Redsfest weekend, it’s likely you’ll never see this many of our baseball heroes out and about. Between Reds Hall of Fame weekend and a couple of autograph and photograph appearances, it’l be a fun couple of day for Reds fans. Enjoy it!

Making appearances are current Reds Jay Bruce, Devin Mesoraco, Todd Frazier, Zack Cozart, Chris Heisey and former Reds Jack Billingham, Leo Cardenas, Clay Carroll, Sean Casey, David Concepcion, Eric Davis, Dan Driessen, George Foster, Cesar Geronimo, Wayne Granger, Tommy Helms, Lee May, Joe Morgan, Gary Nolan, Jim O’Toole, Chris Sabo, Mario Soto.

For a full list of events, appearances and whatnot, visit the OMGreds Events Calendar.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Aroldis, Autographs, Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Aroldis Chapman, Autographs, Reds Hall of Fame, Sports Gallery

Foster Night

May 2, 2012

1977 NL MVP

The Reds Hall of Fame and Museum continues their Hall of Famer series this month as the Host George Foster at the Tap House Grill on Wednesday, May 16 at 6:00pm. This is your chance to meet the 1977 NL MVP and Big Red Machine star in-person! Included in your ticket is a meet & greet with George (cameras welcome!), Q&A session, an autographed George Foster bobblehead, a drink ticket and a dinner buffet. Sounds like a good night to us!

For more information, check out www.redsmuseum.org or download this nifty .pdf flyer.

For more information on upcoming events and autograph signings, head to the OMGreds events calendar.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: George Foster, Reds Hall of Fame, Tap House Grill

Geronimo Night!

April 6, 2012

Cesar Geronimo during Spring Training in 1972 (Rhodes/Klumpe Reds Hall of Fame Collection)

The Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum Presents: Geronimo Night at The Tap House Grill

April 12
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The Tap House Grill
8740 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio, 45236

Cesar Geronimo, center fielder during the Big Red Machine Era, holds two World Series Championships (75 & 76) and four Gold Glove awards. The Chief was inducted into the Reds Hall of Fame in 2008.

Includes:

Meet and Greet – Cameras welcome!
Autographed Cesar Geronimo Bobblehead
Q&A session with Cesar
Dinner buffet
Drink ticket

Tap House Grill Buffet Options:

Bratwurst with Beer Mustard sauce
Bahama Mama Mettwurst
Joey’s MVP Dogs—Chili sauce, cheese, onions
Homer Run Dog—pulled pork, bbq sauce, jalapeno
AC Cuban Missile—ham, swiss cheese, pickle
Dusty don’t like Chicago Dog—mustard, onion, relish, celery salt, tomato, pickle, & sport peppers
Cheese Fries—with cheese, bacon, green onion, & ranch
Peanuts
Flavored Saratoga chips
Ice cream

Ticket Pricing:
$35 for Non-Members
$30 for Museum Members

To purchase tickets, call 513-765-7921

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Autographs, Bobbleheads, Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Cesar Geronimo

February is pretty much awesome at the Reds HOF & Museum

February 9, 2012

Johnny awaits your visit

If you’re jonesin’ for a little baseball action during this dull, “cold” Cincinnati winter, get down to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. They have a ton of stuff going on this month.

Here’s the run-down:

February is an exciting month at the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum. From celebrating former players during Black History Month to bobblehead giveaways to learning about how baseball played a historical role in the Presidency of the United States, the Reds Hall of Fame is the place where the story of baseball comes alive each day.

Hall of Fame Celebrates Black History Month
February 1-29

Throughout the month of February, the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum will recognize the influences that African Americans have had on Reds baseball by highlighting these players and their related artifacts throughout the museum. African Americans in the Reds Hall of Fame include Brooks Lawrence, Vada Pinson, Frank Robinson, Lee May, Joe Morgan, Ken Griffey Sr., George Foster, Eric Davis, and Barry Larkin.

Presidents Day Weekend Johnny Bench Bobblehead Giveaway
February 17-20

For fans that missed out on the fifth and final bobblehead in the museum’s popular 2011 Johnny Bench bobblehead series, you now have another opportunity to add this unique collectible to your collection. The museum will distribute the bobbleheads to the first 500 fans who purchase full-price museum admission, ballpark tours or clubhouse tour tickets beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 17. The bobblehead depicts Johnny in the follow-through of his classic home run swing.

Free admission for ages 12 and under during Presidents Day Weekend
February 17-20

Fans ages 12 and under will receive free museum admission from Friday, February 17 to Monday, February 20.

William Howard Taft Display
February 17-20

During Presidents Day weekend, the museum will have a display of artifacts on loan from the William Howard Taft National Historic Site. A Cincinnati native, Taft was the first United States President to throw a ceremonial first pitch prior to a Major League Baseball game.

Baseball and the Presidents
February 18 at 1 p.m.

Historian Mel Marmer returns to the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. to present “Baseball and the Presidents.” This presentation offers an insightful look into the association of the great sport of baseball and the Presidency of the United States. In addition to appearing at the Reds Hall of Fame during previous Presidents Day weekends, Mr. Marmer has also spoken at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. The presentation is session is free with museum admission.

Frank Robinson Bobblehead Giveaway
February 25 and 26

The museum has acquired a limited supply of the classic Frank Robinson bobblehead that was distributed to fans attending the July 25, 2007 Reds vs. Brewers game at Great American Ball Park. The bobblehead features the all-time great in the middle of his signature swing. The Frank Robinson bobbleheads will be distributed to the first 500 fans who purchase full-price museum admission, ballpark tours or clubhouse tour tickets beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 25.

Chuck Harmon Autograph Session and Meet and Greet
February 25 from Noon to 2 p.m.

In celebration of Black History Month, Chuck Harmon will sign autographs and meet guests at the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum from on Saturday, Feb. 25 from Noon to 2:00 p.m. On April 17, 1954, Chuck became the first African-American to play for the Reds. The autograph session is free with museum admission.

Museum Member Drive Event
February 28, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Tap House Grill in Kenwood

Join the Reds Hall of Fame staff and special guest Reds great Ron Oester for a night of fun and food at the Tap House Grill for a member drive event. This a great opportunity for fans to learn about the features and benefits of becoming a museum member. There will be door prizes, a silent auction and other surprises. Ten percent of the proceeds will benefit the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum. The Tap House Grill is located at 8740 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45236.

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Regular museum admission for adults is $10, students and seniors (60 and older) are $8 and active military and veterans (with valid military ID) are $6.

Operating hours are Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the offseason and then seven days a week April-October.

For tickets and additional information, visit www.redsmuseum.org or call (513) 765-7923.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Autographs, Bobbleheads, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Bobbleheads, Chuck Harmon, Frank Robinson, Johnny Bench bobblehead, Ron Oester

2012 Reds Bobbleheads

December 6, 2011

2012 Reds and Reds Hall of Fame Bobbleheads

Both the Reds and Reds Hall of Fame & Museum recently released their bobbelehead promotions for 2012. Reds fans have a bevy of bobbleheads from current and past players to collect during the upcoming season. Interestingly, all of the Reds bobbleheads, except for Johnny Cueto, are for players that have been featured as a ceramic nodder in the past. For a list of past Reds bobbleheads, click here.

Reds (Promotional Schedule)

Sat, May 12 – Joey Votto
Sat, Jun 23 – Sean Casey (2012 Reds Hall of Famer)
Wed, Jul 18 – Jay Bruce
Sat, Aug 4 – Johnny Cueto

Just a heads up, bobbleheads are limited to 25,000 fans per date this season. It’s been 30-40,000 the past few seasons. This year marks the return of the weeknight bobblehead giveaway. It’s been quite a few years since the Reds have done that. Not sure when the last one was. Anyone remember?

Reds Hall of Fame & Museum (RedsMuseum.org)

April – Cesar Geronimo
May – George Foster
June – Dan Driessen (2012 Reds Hall of Famer)
July – Ken Griffey, Sr.
August – Dave Concepcion
September – Joe Morgan

Individual memberships receive Geronimo and Foster. Family membership receive those plus Driessen and Griffey, Sr.

September’s bobblehead has been announced! It’s Joe Morgan.

Comments: 9 Posted by: Dan Categories: Bobbleheads, Promotions, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Cesar Geronimo, Dan Driessen, George Foster, Jay Bruce, Joey Votto, Johnny Cueto, Ken Griffey Sr, Sean Casey

JB’s golf cart

November 13, 2011

You could be big ballin' in this ride!

You know you want it. We do. OMGreds would love to roll up to GABP in Reds-branded golf cart with a gangsta lean in full effect. It’s how we roll. Most of the time.

He’s your shot. It’s not cheap, but for 100 clams you can get in on this action. Here are the deets…

A gift from the Pittsburgh Pirates during Johnny’s last year as a player in 1983, this gently used golf cart has been warehoused for most of the last 25 years. It was recently professionally cleaned and its tires and battery were replaced. It features a Reds logo on the front, Johnny’s iconic #5 on each side, and the cart has been personally signed by Johnny. This one-of-kind piece of Johnny Bench memorabilia is now the grand prize in special raffle. Proceeds from raffle ticket sales benefit the Johnny Bench Scholarship Fund.

Only 500 tickets will be sold! 100 prizes in all will be awarded, many of which will include autographed Johnny Bench merchandise!
Drawing to be held December 3!

You can pick up your tickets at several locations including the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, The Montgomery Inn Boathouse and the Green Diamond Gallery.

Good luck to ya.

Comments: 1 Posted by: Dan Categories: Reds Hall of Fame, Totally Random Tags: Big Ballin, Golf carts, johnny bench

Eyewitness: Johnny Bench Night

September 19, 2011

Johnny Bench poses with his family next to his newly-unveiled statue outside the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum on Saturday, September 17, 2010

Johnny Bench poses with his family next to his newly-unvieled statue outside the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum on Saturday, September 17, 2010

When I noticed “Johnny Bench Night” on the Reds promotional calendar early in the 2011 season, I didn’t think a whole lot of it. Seemed neat, but it didn’t make it on the “must attend” game list.

As the date came closer, I heard a little more about it here and a little more there. Details about the statue emerged, the on-field ceremonies, the who’s who of who also might be attending. All the while, I made visit after visit to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum and took in a little more of the “Bench” exhibit each time I was there, learning more and more about why Johnny Bench was the greatest catcher in the history of baseball. As if I had any doubt.

By the time the week of the festivities rolled around, I was pumped. Throw in a #RedsTweetUp and we’ve got one heck of a night on our hands, right?

Whatever expectations I built up in my head for Johnny Bench Night over those months, weeks, days, hours were blown away last Saturday night. As the Reds do so often anymore, it was a first-class night all the way.

I’m going to admit though – I’m at a loss for words. There has been tremendous coverage of this event, there’s really not much to add. The night was fantastic, of course.

There’s also my connection to Johnny Bench, or lack thereof. I never did see Johnny Bench play baseball. I was alive during the tail-end of Bench’s playing career and theoretically could have even been in attendance for the original Johnny Bench Night, but I wasn’t. This connection of Johnny Bench Nights 17 years apart is one I am unable to make. Saturday night I was an observer.

Now, don’t worry, I have as much respect for Johnny Bench and what he did for the game as any other fan, and possibly more. But I just don’t have that tangible connection. That little “I saw Johnny Bench do X one night down at ol’ Riverfront Stadium” thing I can go to when talking about the Big Red Machine over a couple of beers. I wish I did. You can watch all the old TV footage you can, but it’s just not the same.

So Saturday night I was an observer, and I was in awe. In awe of what this man means to the Reds, his teammates, this city and to baseball. It’s amazing that one man can garner the type of attention that Johnny Bench so easily gets. It’s easy for me to put a lot of sports icons up on a pedestal – Mickey Mantle, Cy Young, Jackie Robinson, etc., etc., etc., and never really to feel their greatness. Bench is on that same pedestal. Those of us that may not have witnessed his career first-hand got just a peek this weekend. We were able to hear him speak, maybe even to shake his hand. You could get a small glimpse into this greatness. You could feel it.

It’s these little moments that really make the game of baseball so special to me. You can go to the ballpark on any given night and possibly see greatness unfold right in front of your eyes. It’s also possible to get these very small, yet powerful, glances into the past. It’s what keeps me coming back for more.

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Russ over at Reds Country did make it to Johnny Bench Night #1 and has the certificate to prove it. Pretty awesome.

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If you were at the ceremonies and didn’t catch all the FS Ohio coverage, here’s an OMGreds run-down.

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Below are a few photos I took during the statue unveiling ceremony. Hope you enjoy.

[Show as slideshow]

Comments: 5 Posted by: Dan Categories: Former Reds, Outstanding, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: johnny bench, Johnny Bench Night, Reds Hall of Fame

Reds Live: Johnny Bench Night

September 19, 2011

As a huge Johnny Bench fan (at 13, I was lucky enough to be on hand in Cooperstown for his National Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend) unable to attend Johnny Bench Night on Saturday, the silver lining was sitting down Sunday night and watching the hour-long Reds Live from Johnny Bench Night that I had DVR’ed. Let me start by saying I was very impressed with what Fox Sports Ohio did with this hour. I’d imagine their goal was to allow people who couldn’t make it to feel like they didn’t miss it after all. And that’s exactly what they achieved. It was a great hour of TV for a Reds fan.

In case you missed it because you were at the ballpark and/or didn’t get to DVR it, here were some highlights:

Most awkward moment: Johnny is making his speech on the field before the game. The guy doesn’t appear to have any notes, but when you’ve got the public speaking ability that Johnny Bench has, you don’t need notes. A couple of minutes into the speech, he says, “The one thing I asked when this statue was going to be constructed was that it also had to include a caveat that following me would be – not in this order – Pete, Joe and Tony.”

Which gets big applause from the fired-up crowd.

And immediately the camera zooms in on Davey Concepcion.

Bum-bum-buh-dum, horrrrrn.

Of course Concepcion smiled and applauded as the incredibly gracious and modest individual he is. And the show’s director/producer/camera folks probably had no idea exactly what Johnny was going to say there (I’m pretty sure only Johnny knows what Johnny is about to say.) But for the love of, um, Pete … zoom in on Bob Castellini right at that moment. Show the crowd. Show that group of people who donated to the Bench statue fund. Heck, show Doug Flynn. ANYONE but the guy who could stake a claim to having been the fifth Beatle for years. It was just a hair painful, knowing that Concepcion should absolutely be a National Hall of Famer and will undoubtedly be deserving of a statue as well. (And we’re going to need a George Foster statue eventually as well. C’mon, people, how many guys can lead the league in RBIs in three consecutive seasons.)

Awkward honorable mention: Hal McCoy, on the set of Reds Live with Jim Day and Brian Giesenschlag, offers the following anecdote when asked if Johnny has mellowed:

“Very much so. He came in the clubhouse yesterday and he saw me across the room and he yelled, “Hall of Famer!” … came over, shook my hand, gave me a hug and I turned to somebody when he left and said, ‘He just said more words to me right there than he said in an entire season sometimes.’”

Awkward honorable mention No. 2: Jim Day asks Hal McCoy about how Bench and Pete Rose have mended fences and McCoy explains how great it is that their relationship has improved so much. Which begs the question: Why wasn’t Pete on hand for any of Saturday’s festivities? Anyone know his alibi?

That’s a fact, Jack: Johnny is referred to repeatedly (most often, I believe, by emcee Joe Zerhusen during the on-field ceremony) as the greatest catcher of all-time. I may have missed it but I don’t think Bench was referred to even once during the show as one of the greatest catchers of all time. I just find that interesting … how certain everyone is and how no one wants to acknowledge that Johnny may be among a very elite group of three or four catchers who could stake a claim to being the greatest ever.

Did I blink and miss it? At the start of the show, they promised a “live visit” with statue designer Tom Tsuchiya. (Not to be confused, by the way, with MLB umpire Tim Tschida.) They teased it again later. Totally missed it. Did my DVR just not pick it up? Was it after 7 p.m. that it aired?

Unintentional comedy: Jim Day starts the show talking about the buzz in the air for Johnny Bench Night and the big crowd on hand, and there are like 50 people in the hundreds of seats behind him. (I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that JD did a great job co-hosting this show.)

Goosebumps: Joe Nuxhall calling Bench’s home run on Johnny Bench Night in 1983. They showed it twice – once during the show coming out of a commercial break and again on the video board during the pre-game ceremony on the field. Goosebumps, both times.

Really??: When they introduced everyone who was sitting on the field for the pre-game ceremony, what was with the one guy who starting booing his ace off when they introduced Mayor Mark Mallory? It would have been one thing if everyone had started booing (clearly there is not enough animosity for a guy who will forever be remembered for this) but, to me, it sounded like one guy just started booing very loudly by himself. I’m gonna call that a #fail. #failboo

Best intentional comedy: Johnny is known for his sense of humor. The guy can be downright goofy. And he reached into his bag of tricks on several occasions during the pre-game ceremonies. The funniest? He set it up this way:

“Very seldom does anyone ever embarrass the Big Red Machine, but sometimes it happens.”

Cue this video of Joe Morgan doing the Chicken Dance on the video board.

It’s like I kind of saw it coming but the way Johnny set it up was pretty laugh-out-loud outstanding. And he followed up with, “All of that just to sell a car.” Zing!

Just Johnny being Johnny: You’d have to have seen it to know how strange and borderline awkward it was but Johnny took the time at the end of his speech during the on-field ceremony to recognize what an outstanding season the Brewers have had, wishing them well, he jokingly said, in the event that the Reds don’t catch them this season. Ouch. Kind of a sore subject, Johnny. Maybe he knew what a pounding the Brewers were going to administer on Saturday and figured the current Reds deserved that. Which, right now, you’d have to agree they do deserve.

Comments: 1 Posted by: Dave Categories: Former Reds, Kickin' It Old School, OMGrant, Outstanding, Pete Rose, Reds Hall of Fame, Television, Totally Random, WTF? Tags: Johnny Bench Night

Dude, how much can you Bench?

September 16, 2011

Hall of Famer Johnny Bench entertains the crowd at Clark Sports Center during the Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony on July 25, 20010 in Cooperstown, New York. (July 24, 2010 - Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images North America)

We hope a lot, because this weekend is Johnny Bench overload. Here’s a rundown of stuff going on at the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum and elsewhere around town…

Johnny Bench Night
Saturday, September 17, 5:00pm

Join the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum on an historic night at Great American Ball Park as the Museum celebrates Johnny Bench Night with the unveiling of Johnny’s statue. Commissioned by the Reds Hall of Fame and made possible through the generous donations of a host fans and friends of Johnny, the statue was created by world-renowned sculptor Tom Tsuchiya who also created the statues of Ted Kluszewski, Ernie Lombardi, Joe Nuxhall and Frank Robinson that adorn the Crosley Terrace entrance to the ballpark. [More Information] [Johnny Bench Night - Hour by Hour]

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Johnny Bench Book Signing (Sold out)
Saturday, September 17, 5:00pm

Johnny Bench to Sign Copies of “Catch Every Ball” on Saturday, September 17th!

Johnny Bench will visit the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum on Saturday, September 17 for an exclusive book signing. The signing will take place from 3:00-4:30PM. Ticket packages for the signing are $45 for Hall of Fame members and $50 for non-members.

Packages include admission to the Reds Hall of Fame, the fifth bobblehead in the Johnny Bench bobblehead series, a copy of Johnny’s inspirational book, “Catch Every Ball: How To Handle Life’s Pitches” and a guaranteed spot in the signing line. A limited number of ticket packages are available and pre-orders are strongly encouraged. To purchase a package, please call the Hall of Fame Box Office at 513-765-7923.

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A Golden Photo Opportunity
September 16-18

As part of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum’s celebration of Johnny Bench, visitors to the museum will have a unique opportunity to have photos taken with a one-of-a-kind display of Johnny Bench’s Gold Gloves. A 10-time Gold Glove winner, nine of the Gold Glove trophies Bench was awarded during his career will be on display in addition to the trophy he received for being named to the Rawlings All-Time Gold Glove team in 2007. Each of the trophies comes from Johnny’s personal collection and this weekend marks the first time that the trophy collection has been made available for public display. The trophies will be on display during the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum’s operating hours Friday, September 16 (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM), Saturday (10:00 AM – one hour after the end of the game) and Sunday (10:00 AM – two hours after the end of the game). [More Information]

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Dave Concepcion and Cesar Geronimo at Sports Gallery
Friday, September 16, 6:30pm – 8:30pm

More of Johnny’s teammates will be bringing their Gold Gloves to town. Dave and Cesar will be dropping ink on your memorabilia in exchange for reasonable amounts of cash. We’ll be headed up there to get our ’72 Topps Cesar Geronimo all done up proper. [More Information]

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Joe Morgan leading the World’s Largest Chicken Dance
Saturday, September 17, 1:30pm

A lot of Johnny’s teammates will be in town this weekend. Little Joe gets his own spotlight on Saturday during Oktoberfest. Be there and be square. [More Information]

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Reds player appearances around town
Saturday, September 17

Jay Bruce, Yonder Alonso and Ryan Hanigan take to the streets of Greater Cincinnati spread the Reds gospel as well as sign your baseball cards and awkwardly pose for photos. [More Information]

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#RedsTweetUp
Saturday, September 17

It’s the last Reds TweetUp of the season. Let’s go out with a bang. See you there? [More Information]

Comments: 0 Posted by: Dan Categories: Autographs, Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Cesar Geronimo, Dave Concepcion, Joe Morgan, johnny bench, Reds Hall of Fame

Johnny 5!

September 1, 2011

Johnny Bench Bobblehead #5

Finally! We get to bust out a Johnny 5 reference that really works!

The fifth and final bobblehead in the series puts the “H” in Bench as well a nice cap on your complete set. It’s something to brag about to friends and family, so enjoy the moment. We will.

From our buddies at the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum:

Beginning on Friday, September 2, the fifth of the five-set series of Johnny Bench collectible bobbleheads will be available free with full-price paid admission to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in September while supplies last. The fifth bobblehead in the series depicts Bench in the follow through of his home runs swing.

The bobblehead series concludes with the release of the fifth bobblehead. Each of the bobbleheads in the series has highlighted an iconic moment or image from Johnny Bench’s incomparable Hall of Fame career.

Bobbleheads are only available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with full-priced paid admission to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum while supplies last. There is a strict limit of one bobblehead per visitor per day.

More information right here.

Plus, don’t forget Johnny Bench Night and the unveiling of the Bench statue outside the main entrance to the Reds Hall of Fame. We’ll be there. Wonder if there is a statue unveiling badge on foursqaure?

Comments: 1 Posted by: Dan Categories: Bobbleheads, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: johnny bench, Reds Hall of Fame

Reds HOF 2012

August 7, 2011

Members of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame during the 2010 Induction Ceremony

Voting has begun for the Reds Hall of Fame class of 2012. You can vote up to 25 times per email address right here, or infinity times in person at GABP. Have fun counting those, HALL OF FAME!

The fans will be voting on the Modern Player ballot, consisting of eight former Reds, all who have played in Cincinnati within the last 13 years:

In addition to the Modern Player ballot, Reds Hall of Fame’s Veterans Committee will be selecting additional candidates for the class of 2012. Those candidates’ careers would have wrapped-up more than 13 years ago. More on all that on the Hall of Fame’s website.

We all have our opinions of who should be in the Reds Hall of Fame, right? This is where we tell you all about ours. You can let us know what you think in the comments area… but we don’t guarantee that we actually read those, let alone take them seriously. Try us anyways. What the heck, right?

While you’re at it, these were our picks for the last Reds Hall of Fame class that was voted on in 2009.

Okay, he’s what we’ve got for 2012…

Dave

Jeff Brantley

Jeff Brantley, but ONLY if he’s willing to consume a heaping bowl of UDF Homemade ice cream WHILE he’s giving his speech during the induction gala AND if he can somehow work “Oh, Billy, Billy, Billy, Billy” into his speech as well.

Hal Morris: This is a no-brainer, as he was my favorite Reds player of the ’90s. I’m totally biased, but in my mind it’s kind of a joke that he’s not ALREADY in the Reds Hall of Fame and it kind of bothers me that the Reds even allow anyone to wear No. 23 (though it looks good on Alonso). In my mind, Hal had 200 hits per season for about five or six consecutive seasons as a Red (even though I’m fully aware he never had a season with more than 165, and he only had 146 the year he came oh so close to winning the batting title). Anyway, what a beautiful stroke he had, and he was an integral part of the ’90 and ’95 teams.

Sean Casey: Another no-brainer. Plus, he’s going to get in this time so why fight it. Not that he’s not deserving, right? I mean all the guy did was hit .305 over eight seasons as a Red. Three-oh-friggin-five!

If Brantley won’t eat the ice cream AND say “Billy, Billy, Billy” during his speech, I’ll take John Franco. Don’t care if he pitched twice as long for the Mets as he did for the Reds and racked up almost twice as many saves. Doesn’t matter. His numbers for the Reds were filthy and he’s deserving.

Paul

Hal Morris

Hal Morris: Like Dave said, a total no brainer. Huge cog in the 90/95 playoff teams.

Sean Casey: The Mayor’s gotta be in. But, he loses a few points in my book for being a total spaz as a broadcaster this season…but I can chalk that up to inexperience and nervousness, which he’ll surely overcome and probably end up be pretty good. I loved Casey’s enthusiasm as a player, but some of the games he’s done this year for FoxSports have been hard to watch. I get it, Sean, you LOVE Skyline Chili. But honestly, I think maybe the reason I don’t like him in the booth is because he sounds like what I would probably sound like if I were in the booth calling a game…getting way too excited, and talking about Skyline all the time.

Paul O’Neill: I actually think Franco deserves it more, but I gotta vote for O’Neill for two reasons: a) I wanna see a bronze statue somewhere of him kicking that ball in from right field, and b) his work on Seinfeld. Which yes, he was with the Yankees then, but whatever.

Dan

Sean Casey

Sean Casey: I might just only vote for The Mayor to save you and me all the trouble. He’s in. For sure. Write the check, cash it and let it rain!

Seriously though, there is no doubt that Sean has the stats to be a lock for the Reds Hall of Fame. On top of that, he was the heart and soul of the Reds during most of his eight seasons in Cincinnati. Then throw in all that he has done for this community through charity work and sprinkle in how he treated the fans of this great baseball city and you have a legend that needs a statue on Crosley Terrace. He was The Mayor. THE MAYOR. Mark Mallory can barely claim that.

Look, the man had a Reds bobblehead, figurine AND a Celebriduck. He must have done something right.

If Sean Casey is not standing on that podium at the Duke Energy center next to Randy Myers and his camouflage sport coat, it will stand as proof that… that… um… er… that… uh… that something is really wrong with this world.

If I did have to pick two more, I’d go with Hal Morris and John Franco. Hal because that dude could flat-out HIT. John Franco just because he was a favorite of mine when I was growing up. Though his trade to the Mets help set up the Nasty Boys, I was a pretty bummed out kid when it happened. You can’t rewrite history, but you could wonder what might have been if he would have stayed in Cincy. Maybe it was for the best.

Speaking of what-ifs, if Danny Graves wouldn’t have been so mis-handled (remember his conversion to a starter?) and his career wouldn’t have flamed out so quickly, I really think he would have garnered some serious consideration. When he was on, it was fun to watch. When he was off… well, yeah… haha. He certainly will go into the Reds Tattoo Hall of Fame.

Comments: 9 Posted by: Dan Categories: Business Time, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Danny Graves, Hall Morris, Jeff Brantley, John Franco, Paul O'Neill, Sean Casey

1961 Reds Reunion

June 23, 2011

OMGreds was in attendance during yesterday’s early half of the doubleheader. We didn’t end up watching the game intently, which may have been for the best, because we were rubbing elbows with members of the Reds 1961 NL Championship team. The Reds Hall of Fame and Museum put together a great event to commemorate the “Ragamuffin Reds” while the Yankees where in town. After all, the Reds took on the great ’61 Yankees team in the World Series, losing four games to one.

Of the fans in attendance, I was definitely skewing the median age sharply downward. Don’t take that as a negative though, I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with folks that were big Reds fans during the ’60s, making trips to Crosley Field by bus or by train. Getting to feel their excitement for that ’61 team, and seeing them shake the hands of some of their childhood idols was a real treat. It makes you wonder about what memories are on the way during your own trip as a Reds fan.

The reunion was held in the Riverfront Club during the 12:35 businessman’s special. It’s a great spot at the park to get a great buffet-style meal, but for the great view it offers, you do feel disconnected from the ballgame. The roar of the crowd and other sounds of the game are very muted. It was no matter to me, though. Getting to sit and chat with Reds pitching legend Jim Maloney and his wife, Lyn, at length was more than a blast.

The real treat though, was after the game when all 8 of the returning players, Leo Cardenas, Jerry Lynch, Jim Maloney, Jim O’Toole, Gene Freese, Joe Gaines, Jay Hook and Claude Osteen, answered questions from the fans. WCPO’s Sports Director and Anchor, John Popovich, hosted the Q & A session.

Many players shared their stories about Manager Fred Hutchinson, and expressed their deep respect for the Reds’ Hall of Fame skipper. Others spoke of specific games, or talked about how they made ends meet in the off-season with other jobs. Jim O’Toole mentioned that when the Reds were returning from a road trip at the end of the ’61 season where they had just learned they won the pennant, they traveled by bus from the airport to a Fountain Square filled with thousands of fans ready to greet them with enthusiasm. So much enthusiasm that fans were rocking the the Reds bus from side to side, giving the players a bit of a scare. After the celebration, they had more celebrating to do that night with a party hosted at the Hilton Netherland. O’Toole mentioned that Hutchinson sang Sinatra songs into the night. Quite a different party than the one 2010 Reds had after they clinched the Central Division Title, I would imagine.

The best part of the whole Q&A was whenever Jerry Lynch had the microphone. The man is flat-out hilarious and full of energy. I really wish I had something to share (video, transcript, etc.) that articulates how Jerry had the room in stitches, but alas, you’ll have to trust me on this one.

All-in-all, it was a great reason to play hookie from work and catch a ballgame and be surrounded by real Cincinnati Reds history. The Reds Hall of Fame continues to put together events of all sizes (and price points) that give the fans something special.

Alright, how about some photos?

[Show as slideshow]

Comments: 1 Posted by: Dan Categories: Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: 1961 Reds, Jerry Lynch, Jim Maloney, Jim O'Toole, Leo Cardenas

Sparkuesque

January 28, 2011

Sparky Anderson Bronze Statue

Not sure why we’re posting this, since OMGreds knows ya’ll are getting the Reds promotional scoop over at Keisewetter’s column in the E-N-Q. Buuuuut… for poops and chuckles we’ll post it anyways.

To yer right is a your 2011 Sparky Anderson replica statue. Lookin’ good, eh? It’s a miniature version of the full-size Sparky Anderson statue that proudly stands in the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. The Reds will be giving away mini-Sparkys to the first 20,000 fans through the turnstiles on Saturday, May 14. It’ll make a nice addition to your mantle, right next to your Joe Nuxhall bronze statue you picked up in 2008.

Kiese gets into the details of a few other promotions, including this year’s bobbleheads. But what we found most interesting was the way the Reds are enhancing their annual team baseball card set. Random team sets will include a “premium insert.” As described by the Reds, this could be a gold or silver foil card. Sounds pretty cool to us. No word on if those special insert cards are parallels, serial numbered or how big the production runs might be. We’ll try and get the scoop for all you cardboard aficionados out there. Snag a team team set for yourself on Sunday April 17 when the Reds take on the Pirates of Allegheny County. If your curious, here’s a peak at the 2010 Reds team set.

UPDATE: Reds communications manager, Jarrod Rollins, has indicated to us that plans for the team baseball card set are not final at this point, and whether the inserts will be random or in every pack is still undecided. The great news is that no matter which way it goes, the baseball card set will be an upgrade compared to years past. We’re looking forward to seeing what they come up with.

Also of note is the weekend of July 15-17. An Aroldis Chapman Action Figure giveaway on Saturday is the centerpiece of “Super Hero Weekend” that also includes “super hero-themed” fireworks on Friday and a “super hero cape” for kiddos 14 and under on Sunday.

We know you ya’ll want that cape.

All Reds promotions can be found right here.

By the way, this is the best part of the Keise column, right next to the photo of the Sparky’s statue…

Reds promotions: See the complete list of promotions at Reds.com. Put your cursor on “schedule,” and click on “promotions & giveaways.”

Cursor. ha!

Comments: 5 Posted by: Dan Categories: Baseball Cards, Promotions, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Joe Nuxhall, Sparky Anderson

Hall of Savings

December 21, 2010

Lookin’ for that last minute Christmas gift? Walgreens seasonal aisle a little picked-over right now? The Reds Hall of Fame & Museum has just the thing – awesome Reds gifts at awesome prices. If you’re a member of the Hall, your in for even bigger deals. Wonder if you can pick up a Brandon Webb at a decent price? Read on…

Hall of Fame & Museum End of Year Merchandise Sale

Need a last minute gift for your favorite Reds fan? Starting today at the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, fans can save up to 50 percent off selected merchandise, clothing, books and art at the end of year sale:

• 50% off all Hall of Fame t-shirts

• 50% off matted prints by artist Bill Purdom

• 40% off The Wire-to-Wire Reds: Sweet Lou, Nasty Boys, and the Wild Run to a World Championship book

• 25% off all signed 8×10’s and baseballs

• 25% off all Hall of Fame polo shirts

• 10% off all framed pieces (signed and unsigned), including “The Clinch” framed print featuring the official scorecard from the September 28 game and a photo of Jay Bruce’s historic home run trot

Other specials include:
• Marge Schott Bobbleheads only $15

• Great gifts for $5: Minibats, coin sets, magnet sets, Opening Day book, Pete Rose prints and Last Pitch at Crosley posters.

Sale prices are good though December 31 and are available at the HOF only. Not available on the web or over the phone.

Holiday dates and hours for the Hall of Fame & Museum:

• Open: December 21-23, 10 am to 5 pm
• Closed: December 24-27
• Open: December 28-31, 10 am to 5 pm

Comments: 1 Posted by: Dan Categories: Reds Hall of Fame, Shopping

These Kids, they’re alright

November 17, 2010

If you’re itching to relive the Reds 2010 season at Redsfest, but just can’t stand the wait, get yer fanny down to the Reds Hall of Fame tomorrow night (11/18) for the release of The Comeback Kids. Authors Mark Schmetzer and Joe Jacobs will be on-hand to sign copies and dish about their freshly printed book. And we mean fresh… it’s actually being printed that day. BAM!

Reds broadcaster and left-handed craftsman Chris Welsh – who wrote the book’s forward – will also be there, so you know it’s going to be a jam.

The Comeback Kids tells the remarkable story of the 2010 National League Central Division Champion Reds and their first postseason appearance since 1995. The full-color book features more than 100 photos and provides a month-by-month look back at the season.

We’re excited about the book, not only to look back at a fun 2010 season, but also that friend of OMGreds, Aaron Doster has a gaggle of photos featured in it. Can’t wait to see ‘em!

For more information about the even, check out RedsMuseum.org.

Comments: 4 Posted by: Dan Categories: Go Reds, Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame Tags: Books, Chris Welsh, Reds Hall of Fame

Halloween at the Reds Haunt of Fame

October 20, 2010

Round up the kiddos, dress ‘em up as Dolf Luque and head down to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum for some Halloween fun on Saturday, October 30th.

Maybe you’ll get to say hello to a few of the spooks* that roam the halls of the… um… Hall. MUHAHAHAHA!

Halloween at the HOF – free admission for kids on Oct 30th

On Saturday, Oct. 30th, all children wearing a Halloween costume will receive free admission to the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, when accompanied by a paying adult.

Kids will receive a goodie bag with a Hall of Fame mini bat and candy, and the first 40 kids will get a free Reds batting helmet.

Hours for the “Halloween at the HOF” are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regularly priced admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors.

Active military and veterans receive 50% off regular admission and children 4 and younger are free.

*We have no clue if there are spooks at the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, but it would be pretty cool if there were! MUHAHAHAHA!

Comments: 5 Posted by: Dan Categories: Happenings, Reds Hall of Fame