Big Red Machine: 10 Surprising Facts, Roster Highlights, and Key Moments from 1972-1976

The Big Red Machine, the nickname for the Cincinnati Reds' dominant teams of the 1970s, is one of the most storied lineups in baseball history. Known for their powerful offense and stellar defense, the team left an indelible mark on the sport. Here are ten fun facts about the Big Red Machine that most people might not know.

1. Unique Defensive Lineup

The Big Red Machine is renowned for having four players who won Gold Glove Awards in the same season (1975). These defensive standouts were Johnny Bench (catcher), Joe Morgan (second baseman), Dave Concepción (shortstop), and César Gerónimo (center fielder).

2. Historic Winning Percentage

From 1970 to 1976, the Reds boasted a .611 winning percentage, the highest in the majors over that period. They won five division titles, four National League pennants, and two World Series championships during this era.

3. Offensive Powerhouse

The 1976 Reds are the only team in MLB history to lead the league in every major offensive category: runs, hits, doubles, triples, home runs, batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and stolen bases.

4. Unprecedented Back-to-Back MVPs

Joe Morgan, the team's dynamic second baseman, won back-to-back National League MVP awards in 1975 and 1976, a rare achievement that underscored his all-around excellence in hitting, defense, and base running.

5. Record-Setting All-Star Game Selections

In 1976, seven players from the Big Red Machine were selected for the All-Star Game: Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Pete Rose, Dave Concepción, George Foster, Ken Griffey Sr., and César Gerónimo. This was a record for the most players from one team chosen for the All-Star Game.

6. Johnny Bench’s Offensive Prowess

Johnny Bench, widely regarded as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, hit 389 home runs during his career. In 1970 and 1972, he led the National League in home runs, showcasing his incredible power-hitting ability.

7. Dave Concepción’s Versatility

Shortstop Dave Concepción was known for his exceptional fielding, but he also invented the "bounce throw" technique, where he intentionally bounced his throws to first base on artificial turf to improve accuracy and speed.

8. Ken Griffey Sr.’s Speed

Ken Griffey Sr., the team's speedy outfielder, stole 34 bases in 1976, contributing to the Reds' dynamic offense. His son, Ken Griffey Jr., would later become a Hall of Fame player, continuing the Griffey legacy in baseball.

9. Pete Rose’s Position Flexibility

Pete Rose, famously known as "Charlie Hustle," played five different positions (first base, second base, third base, left field, and right field) during his career. His versatility was a key asset for the Reds, allowing them to adapt their lineup as needed.

10. Unblemished Postseason Run

In 1976, the Big Red Machine became the first team in MLB history to go undefeated in the postseason, sweeping both the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) and the New York Yankees in the World Series.

The Big Red Machine's blend of talent, versatility, and teamwork made them one of the most formidable teams in baseball history. These lesser-known facts highlight the depth and breadth of their dominance, ensuring their legacy endures in the annals of the sport.

Exploring the Big Red Machine: Roster Highlights and Key Moments

The Big Red Machine is celebrated for its incredible roster and impressive performance in the 1970s. Let’s delve deeper into the key elements of this legendary team, focusing on their rosters, pitchers, and batting order across different years.

1. Big Red Machine Roster 1976

The 1976 roster was perhaps the peak of the Big Red Machine’s dominance. This lineup included:

• Johnny Bench (C)
• Joe Morgan (2B)
• Pete Rose (LF)
• George Foster (RF)
• Dave Concepción (SS)
• Ken Griffey Sr. (CF)
• Tony Pérez (1B)
• César Gerónimo (CF)
• Rawly Eastwick (RP)

These players formed a powerhouse team that went undefeated in the postseason, culminating in a World Series sweep.

2. Big Red Machine Baseball Roster

Throughout their peak years, the Big Red Machine boasted an impressive roster. Key players included:

• 1975 Roster: Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Pete Rose, George Foster, Dave Concepción, and Tony Pérez.
• 1976 Roster: Similar core as 1975 but with added depth in both pitching and the bench.

3. Big Red Machine Roster 1975

The 1975 roster set the stage for the team’s dominance. Key members were:

• Johnny Bench (C)
• Joe Morgan (2B)
• Pete Rose (LF)
• George Foster (RF)
• Dave Concepción (SS)
• Tony Pérez (1B)
• Ken Griffey Sr. (CF)

This roster was pivotal in their 1975 World Series victory and laid the groundwork for their success in 1976.

4. Big Red Machine Pitchers 1976

While the lineup is often celebrated, the pitchers of 1976 played a crucial role:

• Don Gullett (SP)
• Jack Billingham (SP)
• Ken Griffey Sr. (RP)
• Rawly Eastwick (RP)

Their contributions were instrumental in supporting the powerhouse lineup and maintaining a strong pitching rotation throughout the season.

5. Big Red Machine Baseball History

The Big Red Machine’s baseball history is defined by their consecutive World Series titles in 1975 and 1976. Their combination of exceptional hitting, defensive prowess, and effective pitching made them a dominant force in the National League.

6. Big Red Machine Batting Order

The typical batting order for the Big Red Machine was:

1. Pete Rose (LF)
2. Joe Morgan (2B)
3. Johnny Bench (C)
4. Tony Pérez (1B)
5. George Foster (RF)
6. Dave Concepción (SS)
7. Ken Griffey Sr. (CF)
8. Pitcher

This lineup was designed for maximum offensive efficiency, leveraging the speed and power of its players.

7. Big Red Machine Pitchers 1975

The pitching staff in 1975 was crucial to their success:

• Don Gullett (SP)
• Jack Billingham (SP)
• Fred Norman (SP)
• Clay Carroll (RP)

Their ability to complement the explosive offense was a key factor in the team’s overall performance.

8. Big Red Machine Lineup 1972

In 1972, the lineup featured emerging stars who would become central to the team’s future success:

• Pete Rose (LF)
• Joe Morgan (2B)
• Johnny Bench (C)
• Tony Pérez (1B)
• George Foster (RF)
• Dave Concepción (SS)
• Ken Griffey Sr. (CF)

The 1972 lineup laid the foundation for the team’s later achievements, blending young talent with seasoned veterans.

The Big Red Machine remains a revered chapter in baseball history, with its rosters and key players defining an era of dominance and unforgettable moments. From their stellar batting order to their effective pitchers, this team’s legacy continues to inspire baseball fans.

 

Photo Credits: This tribute to the Big Red Machine is one of the art pieces inside the Great American Ballpark, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Pictured include Dave Concepcion in front, Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Tony Perez, as well as the Roebling Suspension Bridge, PNC and Carew Tower.