The Cincinnati Reds are set to honor four franchise greats in 2026, as the Reds Hall of Fame welcomes second baseman Brandon Phillips, pitcher Aaron Harang, outfielder Reggie Sanders, and manager Lou Piniella into its prestigious ranks. The induction celebration, slated for April 24-26, will shine a spotlight on the contributions of these iconic figures who helped shape different eras of Reds baseball.
Let’s break down what makes each of these names more than just familiar faces-they’re foundational pieces of Reds history.
Brandon Phillips: Flash, Fire, and Franchise Records
Brandon Phillips wasn’t just a fan favorite-he was a force. Over 11 seasons in Cincinnati (2006-2016), he brought a rare combination of elite defense, clutch hitting, and undeniable swagger to the second base position. A three-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner, and Silver Slugger recipient, Phillips was the kind of player who made the routine look effortless and the impossible look routine.
He holds the modern franchise records for hits, doubles, home runs, and RBIs by a second baseman-numbers that underline not just his longevity, but his impact. Whether it was a behind-the-back flip to start a double play or a walk-off single in extra innings, Phillips delivered moments Reds fans won’t soon forget.
Aaron Harang: The Workhorse on the Hill
From 2003 to 2010, Aaron Harang was the anchor of the Reds’ rotation-an old-school starter in a changing era. He wasn’t flashy, but he was reliable, and in many ways, that made him invaluable. In 2006, Harang led the National League in both strikeouts and complete games, a testament to his ability to go deep into games while still missing bats.
He twice earned the Johnny Vander Meer Award as the Reds’ top pitcher, and his presence on the mound gave the team a fighting chance every fifth day. Harang’s durability and quiet consistency made him a rock in a period of transition for the franchise.
Lou Piniella: The Leader Who Lit the Spark
Lou Piniella’s time in Cincinnati was brief but unforgettable. In just three seasons (1990-1992), he left an imprint that still resonates today.
His first year as Reds manager? A wire-to-wire World Series championship run in 1990.
That’s not just rare-it’s legendary.
Piniella brought intensity, passion, and a no-nonsense edge to the dugout. His leadership helped galvanize a team that refused to be outworked or outplayed. That ’90 squad remains one of the most beloved in team history, and Piniella’s fingerprints are all over it.
Reggie Sanders: Power, Speed, and Quiet Excellence
Reggie Sanders may not always get the same spotlight as some of his contemporaries, but his impact during his Reds tenure (1991-1998) is undeniable. A dynamic outfielder with a rare blend of power and speed, Sanders earned an All-Star nod in 1995-a season that saw the Reds win the division and Sanders finish sixth in MVP voting.
He ranks among the franchise’s top 20 in both home runs and stolen bases, a reflection of his versatility and value. Sanders was the kind of player who could change a game in multiple ways, and he did it with a quiet confidence that resonated in the clubhouse and on the field.
A Legacy Cemented in Bronze
“Each of these legends left an indelible mark on Reds history and now will have their legacy memorialized in bronze,” said Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum.
The 2026 class was selected from a ballot of eight former Reds players. While names like Homer Bailey, Francisco Cordero, Mike Leake, Edinson Volquez, Zack Cozart, and Scott Rolen were also considered, it was Phillips, Harang, Sanders, and Piniella who earned the nod this time around.
With their induction, the Reds Hall of Fame will grow to 97 members-each representing a chapter in the rich tapestry of Cincinnati baseball.
Fans can join in the celebration during the Reds Hall of Fame Induction Gala on April 26 at the Cincinnati Convention Center. It’s shaping up to be a weekend of memories, stories, and well-deserved recognition for four Reds who helped define their eras.