In a monumental and emotional announcement for Cincinnati baseball fans, the Cincinnati Reds ownership group, led by the Castellini family, has officially confirmed that Johnny Bench — the Hall of Fame catcher and long-revered icon of the franchise — will return to the organization in 2025, this time in a new role: co-owner.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at Great American Ball Park earlier today. Reds CEO Bob Castellini and his family stood beside Bench, who was visibly moved as he addressed the media and fans.
“This team is in my blood,” Bench said. “I’ve lived and breathed Reds baseball since I first put on that uniform in 1967. To now be part of shaping its future — not just on the field but in the front office and community — is a dream I never thought possible.”
A Homecoming Decades in the Making
Johnny Bench, widely regarded as one of the greatest catchers in MLB history, spent his entire 17-year career with the Reds, leading the team to two World Series championships during the 1970s as the centerpiece of the legendary “Big Red Machine.” A 14-time All-Star and two-time National League MVP, Bench’s legacy in Cincinnati is etched in stone — both figuratively and literally, with a statue outside the stadium bearing his likeness.
While Bench has remained a visible figure in the Reds’ extended family over the years — often appearing at team events, ceremonies, and in broadcasting roles — this marks his first official return to the franchise in a leadership capacity.
A New Chapter for the Franchise
The decision to bring Bench into the ownership group signals a shift in the Reds’ long-term vision. Bob Castellini, who has overseen the club since 2006, expressed enthusiasm about blending legacy with leadership.
“Johnny represents everything that’s great about Reds baseball — passion, excellence, and a deep connection to the fans,” Castellini said. “Having him as a co-owner brings us back to our roots while charting an exciting new path forward.”
Bench’s role will include strategic input on organizational culture, community engagement, and player development. While he made it clear he won’t be stepping into day-to-day baseball operations, his presence is expected to have a major impact on morale and fan engagement.
Fan Reaction and Legacy Impact
Social media erupted following the news, with fans across the country — and especially in Cincinnati — expressing joy, pride, and nostalgia. Many see Bench’s return as a potential turning point for a franchise that has struggled with consistency in recent years.
Former teammates, current players, and MLB executives have also weighed in. Hall of Famer Joe Morgan’s family issued a statement saying he would have been thrilled to see Bench step into this role, calling it “a home run for the city and for the game.”
What’s Next?
Johnny Bench will officially assume his new role at the start of the 2025 season, with several events planned to commemorate the occasion. These include a special Opening Day celebration, a fan Q&A event, and a retrospective documentary produced by MLB Network chronicling his career and new chapter.
For a team steeped in tradition and hungry for a renaissance, Johnny Bench’s return as co-owner may just be the spark the Cincinnati Reds need to turn the page and write the next great chapter in franchise history.