### Remembering Tommy Helms: A Cincinnati Reds Legend Passes Away Tommy Helms, a celebrated figure in Major League Baseball and a key player for the Cincinnati Reds, has passed away at the age of 83. Helms was renowned for his defensive prowess as a second baseman and was recognized as the National League Rookie of the Year in 1966. His career spanned 14 seasons, during which he also had two brief stints as the Reds' interim manager. Helms' contributions to the game and his legacy as a Hall of Famer will be remembered by fans and players alike [https://www.cleveland.com/news/2025/04/former-reds-rookie-of-the-year-all-star-manager-dies.html][https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/44670486/tommy-helms-1966-nl-rookie-year-reds-dies-83]. ### Overview of Tommy Helms' Career and Impact 1. **Playing Career**: - Helms played primarily for the Cincinnati Reds (1964-1971) and the Houston Astros (1972-1975), with additional time at the Pittsburgh Pirates and Boston Red Sox. - He was a two-time All-Star and won Gold Glove awards in 1970 and 1971 for his exceptional fielding skills [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/mlb/article-14608539/Cincinatti-Reds-hero-MLB-Star-Tommy-Helms-dead-83.html][https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/former_nl_rookie_of_the_year_tommy_helms_dies_at_83/s1_17044_42051778]. 2. **Managerial Role**: - Helms served as the interim manager for the Reds in 1988-1989, stepping in during a challenging period for the team [https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/14/metro/tommy-helms-reds-second-baseman-who-later-managed-pete-roses-place-1988-89-dies-83]. 3. **Legacy and Recognition**: - Inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 1979, Helms is remembered not only for his on-field achievements but also for his character and leadership [https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/MLB/2025/04/14/former-Cincinnati-Reds-Tommy-Helms-dies-83/9031744652073]. ### Key Achievements and Statistics - **Career Highlights**: - **Rookie of the Year**: 1966 - **All-Star Selections**: 1967, 1968 - **Gold Glove Awards**: 1970, 1971 - **Career Batting Average**: .269 over 1,435 games - **Home Runs**: 34 - **RBIs**: 477 [https://www.si.com/mlb/astros/news/former-centerpiece-of-franchise-altering-astros-reds-trade-passes-away][https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/reds_hall_of_famer_tommy_helms_passes_away_at_83/s1_13237_42046626]. ### Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy **Tommy Helms' passing marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball.** His contributions as a player and manager have left an indelible mark on the sport. 1. **Career Overview**: Helms was a standout player known for his defensive skills and leadership. 2. **Managerial Impact**: His brief managerial tenure showcased his commitment to the team. 3. **Enduring Memory**: Helms will be remembered as a beloved figure in baseball history, celebrated for both his achievements and his character [https://www.thestar.com/sports/baseball/tommy-helms-a-reds-second-baseman-who-later-managed-in-pete-roses-place-in-1988/article_2bfb7dcd-7f36-520f-bf2e-0a63d16cb67d.html][https://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/2025/04/14/tommy-helms-a-reds-second-baseman-who-later-managed-in-pete-roses-place-in-1988-89-dies-at-83].