Reds Legend Barry Larkin Retires After Hall of Fame Career

Larkin spent 19 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, making 10 All-Star teams and winning 3 Gold Gloves.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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On February 13, 2005, Cincinnati Reds legend Barry Larkin announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after a storied 19-year career with the team. Larkin was a 10-time All-Star, 3-time Gold Glove winner, and the 1995 National League MVP. He finished his career with the Reds as the franchise's third all-time leader in runs scored, doubles, and triples.

Why it matters

Larkin's retirement marked the end of an era for the Reds, as he was the last player to serve as team captain since Dave Concepcion in 1988. His Hall of Fame induction in 2012 cemented his legacy as one of the greatest shortstops in Reds history.

The details

Larkin was drafted by the Reds in 1985 and made his MLB debut in 1986 at age 22. He went on to make 10 All-Star teams, win 8 Silver Slugger Awards, and 3 Gold Gloves. Larkin's best season came in 1995 when he won the NL MVP award after hitting .319 with 15 home runs and 51 stolen bases. He helped lead the Reds to a World Series title in 1990.

  • Larkin announced his retirement on February 13, 2005.
  • Larkin made his MLB debut on August 13, 1986.
  • Larkin won the NL MVP award in 1995.
  • Larkin helped the Reds win the World Series in 1990.
  • Larkin was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.

The players

Barry Larkin

A Cincinnati native who spent his entire 19-year MLB career with the Reds, making 10 All-Star teams, winning 3 Gold Gloves, and the 1995 NL MVP award.

Jim Bowden

The Washington Nationals General Manager that Larkin served as a Special Assistant to after retiring as a player.

Dave Concepcion

The last Reds player to serve as team captain before Larkin, who held that honor from 1997 until his retirement.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Larkin is currently a color commentator for Reds home games and is heavily involved in mentoring younger players in the organization during spring training.

The takeaway

Larkin's retirement marked the end of an era for the Reds, as he was one of the franchise's all-time greats and the last player to serve as team captain. His Hall of Fame induction cemented his legacy as one of the greatest shortstops in MLB history.