The Cincinnati Reds are one of Major League Baseball’s most iconic franchises. The franchise dates back to the 1880s (Cincinnati was home to the first professional team back in 1869, but that was a different franchise), and over the years, several of the sport’s all-time greats have worn the signature wishbone C.
Yet, somewhat surprisingly, despite the team’s history, retiring uniform numbers is a relatively new concept for the Reds. Former manager Fred Hutchinson, who died from cancer shortly after leading the Redlegs to the 1961 National League pennant, was the first to be honored in 1964. It would be another 20 years before Johnny Bench’s No. 5 would be the second.
Over the last quarter-century, Reds management has held ceremonies for several other greats, including five other members of the vaunted Big Red Machine, one of MLB’s greatest dynasties. Hall of Famers Barry Larkin and Frank Robinson have also been feted.
But who will be the next Red to never have his uniform number worn by another player or coach? While there’s no such thing as a sure thing, especially in Ohio sports betting, BetOhio.com believes there’s only one likely choice.
Next Reds Retired Number Odds
It’s a bittersweet time right now for the Reds and Votto. After his 12-year megadeal ended after this past season, the two sides could not reach terms for a new deal. That makes the former MVP a free agent, although it remains to be seen if he ends up signing with another team.
Given his stats, Votto has a solid case to make the Hall of Fame in the coming years. When that happens, it will likely lead to his No. 19 joining the exclusive club of Reds’ all-time greats.
Current Cincinnati Reds Retired Numbers
- #1 Fred Hutchinson (Retired October 1964)
- #5 Johnny Bench (Retired August 1984)
- #8 Joe Morgan (Retired June 1998)
- #10 Sparky Anderson (Retired May 2005)
- #11 Barry Larkin (Retired August 2012)
- #13 Dave Concepcion (Retired August 2007)
- #14 Pete Rose (Retired June 2016)
- #18 Ted Kluszewski (Retired July 1998)
- #20 Frank Robinson (Retired May 1998)
- #24 Tony Perez (Retired May 2000)
- #42 Jackie Robinson (Retired throughout MLB in 1997)
While Votto will likely be the next Red honored, he probably won’t be the last. The current team has several tantalizing prospects eager to bring Cincinnati its first World Series crown in 34 years. The crystal ball is still a bit foggy, but it’s not inconceivable to see Elly de la Cruz or Matt McLain eventually have their number retired as well.
You can’t wager on who will be the next Reds retired number, but you can bet on the Reds title chances for the upcoming season. Odds on the Reds winning the 2024 World Series range from +3500 at Betfred to +5000 at BetMGM Ohio, ESPN BET, Fanatics, Fan Duel and Hard Rock Bet.
