Reds Hall of Famer Wayne Granger Passes Away at 81

Granger was a dominant closer for the Reds in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Cincinnati Reds Hall of Famer Wayne Granger passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at the age of 81. Granger was a key part of the Reds' bullpen in the late 1960s and early 1970s, setting franchise records for saves and appearances.

Why it matters

Granger was an integral part of the Reds' success during the early years of the "Big Red Machine" era, helping the team reach the postseason in 1970. His dominant performances as the team's closer cemented his legacy as one of the best relievers in Reds history.

The details

Granger was acquired by the Reds in 1968 in a trade that sent outfielder Vada Pinson to the St. Louis Cardinals. He stepped into the closer role in 1969 and thrived, finishing second in the National League with 27 saves and setting a franchise record with 90 appearances. In 1970, Granger set a new NL record with 35 saves as the Reds won the pennant in their first season at Riverfront Stadium. He was named the Sporting News National League Fireman of the Year in both 1969 and 1970.

  • Granger was acquired by the Reds in October 1968.
  • Granger set the Reds franchise record with 90 appearances in 1969.
  • Granger set the NL record with 35 saves in 1970.
  • Granger was elected to the Reds Hall of Fame in 1982.
  • Granger passed away on February 25, 2026 at the age of 81.

The players

Wayne Granger

A former Cincinnati Reds pitcher who was elected to the Reds Hall of Fame in 1982 after a dominant career as the team's closer in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Vada Pinson

An outfielder who was traded by the Reds to the St. Louis Cardinals in October 1968 in the deal that brought Wayne Granger to Cincinnati.

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The takeaway

Wayne Granger's passing marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati Reds, as the team mourns the loss of one of its all-time great relievers. Granger's records and accolades as the Reds' closer in the late 1960s and early 1970s will ensure his place in the team's history and the hearts of its fans.