Tommy Helms Obituary-Death News; Former Cincinnati Reds Baseball Player Tommy Helms Dies

Tommy Helms Obituary-Death News; Former Cincinnati Reds Baseball Player Tommy Helms Dies

Tommy Helms, a two-time All-Star, Gold Glove winner, and 1966 National League Rookie of the Year, passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 83. A cornerstone of the Cincinnati Reds during the 1960s and early 1970s, Helms left an indelible Tommy Helms Obituary-Death News; Former Cincinnati Reds Baseball Player Tommy Helms Diesmark on Major League Baseball through his stellar defense, consistent hitting, and leadership on and off the field.​

Born on May 5, 1941, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Tommy Vann Helms signed with the Cincinnati Reds in 1959. He made his MLB debut in 1964 and quickly established himself as a reliable infielder. In 1966, Helms was named NL Rookie of the Year after batting .284 and solidifying his role as the Reds’ everyday second baseman.​

Helms earned consecutive All-Star selections in 1967 and 1968 and won Gold Glove Awards in 1970 and 1971, showcasing his defensive prowess. He was an integral part of the Reds’ “Big Red Machine” era, contributing to the team’s dominance in the National League.​

Over his 14-year MLB career, Helms played for the Cincinnati Reds, Houston Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Boston Red Sox. He compiled a .269 batting average, with 1,342 hits, 34 home runs, and 477 RBIs in 1,435 games. His exceptional fielding percentage of .980 underscored his defensive reliability.​

After retiring as a player, Helms transitioned to coaching and management. He managed the Cincinnati Reds during parts of the 1988 and 1989 seasons, demonstrating his deep understanding of the game and ability to mentor younger players.​

In recognition of his contributions to the Reds, Helms was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 1979. He was also honored by his home state with induction into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2013, celebrating his impact both regionally and nationally.​

Helms faced personal tragedies, including the loss of his sons, Tommy Jr. and Ryan, in 2014. Despite these hardships, he remained a respected figure in the baseball community, known for his resilience and dedication to the sport.​

Tommy Helms’ passing marks the end of an era for those who remember the golden days of the Cincinnati Reds. His contributions to baseball, both on and off the field, have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered by fans and players alike.