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Reds Hall of Famer Tommy Helms Dies at 83

The 1966 NL Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star leaves behind a storied legacy in Cincinnati and Major League Baseball.

Out at the plate, Cardinal pitcher Steve Carlton (r) puts the tag on Cincinnati Reds' Tommy Helms in the 7th inning of St. Louis-Cincinnati game July 21, 1970 in St. Louis.
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Overview

  • Tommy Helms, a celebrated second baseman and Reds Hall of Famer, passed away on Sunday in Cincinnati at the age of 83.
  • Helms was the 1966 National League Rookie of the Year, a two-time All-Star, and a two-time Gold Glove winner during his 14-year MLB career.
  • He played for the Reds, Astros, Pirates, and Red Sox, and was a key figure in the 1971 trade that brought Hall of Famer Joe Morgan to Cincinnati.
  • After retiring as a player, Helms served as a Reds coach and interim manager, notably stepping in during Pete Rose's suspensions in the late 1980s.
  • Inducted into the Reds Hall of Fame in 1979, Helms was remembered for his defensive prowess, leadership, and lasting impact on the organization.