NEWS: ESPN REPORTS – LEGENDS OF THE CINCINNATI REDS: JOHNNY BENCH TO RETURN AS CO-OWNER IN 2025
in a historic and emotional move that bridges generations of baseball tradition, espn reports that johnny bench — the iconic hall of fame catcher and longtime face of the cincinnati reds — will officially rejoin the franchise in 2025 as a co-owner. the announcement was made by the family of current team owner bob castellini, signaling a major symbolic shift in the team’s leadership and a renewed connection to its storied past.
bench, widely regarded as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, spent his entire 17-year major league career with the reds. he was the centerpiece of the legendary “big red machine” teams of the 1970s, helping lead the franchise to back-to-back world series titles in 1975 and 1976. inducted into the national baseball hall of fame in 1989, bench remains one of the most revered figures in reds history.
“it feels like coming home,” bench said in a statement. “this city, this team — it’s where my heart has always been. to now play a part in shaping its future is both humbling and thrilling.”
sources close to the organization revealed that bench’s new role will not be ceremonial. as a co-owner, he is expected to play an active part in team strategy, community outreach, and player development. he will also serve as a public ambassador for the franchise as it looks to reestablish itself as a competitive force in the national league.
the castellini family, which has owned the team since 2006, emphasized their desire to pass on stewardship of the reds in a way that honors tradition and fans. “johnny has always represented the heart and soul of this franchise,” said a statement from the castellini family. “his passion for the game, leadership, and love for cincinnati make him the perfect figure to help guide the next chapter.”
the announcement has already generated a wave of enthusiasm from reds fans, many of whom see the move as a hopeful sign of revitalization both on and off the field. bench’s return in an ownership role is expected to coincide with several key team initiatives aimed at rebuilding a strong roster and reinvesting in player development.
as the reds look ahead to the 2025 season, the involvement of a franchise legend like johnny bench could mark a turning point — both in terms of legacy and ambition.
