When you think of Johnny Bench, you automatically envision of a catcher’s mitt. That’s only natural, as the man basically re-invented how the position was played. However, after more than a dozen seasons of hard-nosed big league action behind the plate, even Johnny Bench’s knees needed a rest. The Cincinnati Reds were reluctant to part with both his bat and leadership in the lineup, so in the late 1970s Bench began playing other positions that were easier on his knees.

     The logical move was first base, as bench had occasionally played the position since 1970. The Reds also gave him a shot in left and right field as well. Then, in 1982 and 1983, he played a total of 149 games at third base, and that is most likely where Johnny Bench used this glove. PSA/DNA has located a Getty Images photo of Bench using the same Rawlings model glove, though they were unable to say that this was the same glove.

     This 1980-1983 Rawlings XPG6-H fielder’s glove shows outstanding use with moderate to heavy wear in the pocket and body. Though worn, the lacing and webbing is still intact as is the Rawlings labels. “BENCH” has been hand lettered in faded black pen on the outside of the thumb and his number “5” is written in bold black marker between the thumb and index finger. To top off this Bench gamer, the Reds legend has signed the pocket of the glove in black marker, adding a playful “Catch you later”. A unique piece of game used equipment from the greatest catcher of the modern era. The glove comes with an LOA from PSA/DNA (1G00369) for the game use and a COA from JSA (R95391) for the signature.

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