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Cincinnati Reds: The 4 players who belong on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore

By Kevin Henry

Cincinnati Reds' Barry Larkin points to the stands after scoring on a three-run single by Dmitri Young against the Pittsburgh Pirates's 05 April 2001 in Cincinnati. The Reds beat the Pirates 4-. AFP PHOTO/Mike SIMONS (Photo by MIKE SIMONS and - / AFP) (Photo by MIKE SIMONS/AFP via Getty Images)
Cincinnati Reds' Barry Larkin points to the stands after scoring on a three-run single by Dmitri Young against the Pittsburgh Pirates's 05 April 2001 in Cincinnati. The Reds beat the Pirates 4-. AFP PHOTO/Mike SIMONS (Photo by MIKE SIMONS and - / AFP) (Photo by MIKE SIMONS/AFP via Getty Images) /
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A commutative No. 20 Frank Robinson jersey is added down the left field line as seen in the fourth inning of the Opening Day game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Thursday, March 28, 2019.Cincinnati Reds Opening Day
A commutative No. 20 Frank Robinson jersey is added down the left field line as seen in the fourth inning of the Opening Day game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Thursday, March 28, 2019.Cincinnati Reds Opening Day /

Frank Robinson (1956-1965)

Robinson left his mark on the Cincinnati Reds during his 10 seasons with the team, cementing his legacy as one of the most impactful figures in the team’s history.

Earning Rookie of the Year honors in 1956 when he slashed .290/.379/.558 with 38 homers and 83 RBI, Robinson immediately introduced himself to the city of Cincinnati and the MLB community. He would win an MVP award with the Reds in 1961 as well as play in six seasons where he earned an All-Star nod. Robinson also captured his only Gold Glove in 1958, proving he was a force for the Reds at the plate and in the field.

Moreover, Robinson’s presence shattered racial barriers in the league. He would eventually become the first African-American manager in Major League Baseball, taking over managerial duties for the Cleveland Indians in 1975 while still an active player. His success as both a player and manager set a precedent for diversity and equality within the sport.

Frank Robinson’s impact on the Cincinnati Reds and the game of baseball extended beyond just statistics.

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