Joe Morgan Honored with Statue
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Joe Robbins/Getty Images(CINCINNATI, OH.) — Hall of Fame second baseman Joe Morgan was honored before Saturday’s Reds game against the Dodgers with a statue outside Great American Ballpark.
Morgan was a part of the Big Red Machine teams from the 1970’s and was joined by the famed starting eight on the field prior to the game.
Morgan spent seven years with Houston before coming to the Reds and winning two World Series titles (1975, 1976).
“When I got here in 1972, I didn’t know what to expect, I didn’t realize that I was going to be a part of something that was great,” Morgan said. “You have to remember I played in Houston for seven years and our biggest accomplishment was staying out of last place, beating the New York Mets.”
Morgan thanked the Reds faithful for always treating him with respect and welcoming him back whenever he’d broadcast a game.
“Anytime you pass my sculpture, I would hope that you would not only think of Joe Morgan, but you’ll think of all the great players who helped to make that statue possible,” the 10-time All-Star said. “Long live the Big Red Machine.”
Morgan threw out the first pitch to Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench, who was one of the former eight in attendance.
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