1976 Santo Alcala Cincinnati Reds World Championship Players Ring

The Legendary 1976 Cincinnati Reds: A Celebration of Excellence

The Great Eight: A Lineup for the Ages

The 1976 Cincinnati Reds, often heralded as one of the greatest teams in baseball history, boasted a starting lineup known as the “Great Eight.” This ensemble of talent combined offense, defense, baserunning, and intangibles in a way that has rarely been matched. At the heart of this lineup was Johnny Bench, widely regarded as the greatest catcher of all time. Tony Pérez, a formidable RBI machine, averaged nearly 100 RBIs per year for a decade. The team’s prowess was further enhanced by Joe Morgan, the 1976 NL MVP, who delivered an outstanding season with a .320 batting average, 27 home runs, and 62 stolen bases.

Completing this remarkable lineup were Dave Concepción, a complete shortstop with speed and power; Pete Rose, the all-time hits leader; Ken Griffey Sr., a .336 hitter with speed and power; Cesar Gerónimo, a defensive stalwart with a cannon-like arm; and George Foster, who was emerging as the era’s most feared slugger.

Santo Alcala and the Big Red Machine

Rookie pitcher Santo Alcala played a pivotal role in the Reds’ success, contributing 11 wins to the team’s league-best 102 victories. His standout performance included a shutout on May 15, underscoring the depth of talent within the team. The Reds’ dominance extended into the postseason, where they swept the Phillies in three games and the Yankees in four, securing the franchise’s fourth World Series title.

A Commemorative Ring of Triumph

This exquisite size 11, 10k gold player’s ring, weighing 30 grams, was presented to Santo Alcala following the Reds’ triumphant 1976 World Series victory. The top panel of the ring proudly displays “CINCINNATI REDS ’76 WORLD CHAMPIONS,” encircling a casted image of the Commissioner’s Trophy and a .50-carat round-cut diamond. The right panel features a banner with “ALCALA” in relief above “BIG RED MACHINE” and the player number “42.” The left panel reads “REDS 4 YANKS 0,” set above the casted image of the Cincinnati skyline, Riverfront Stadium, and the National League Bicentennial Logo. The ring’s interior is stamped “BALFOUR 10K,” and it remains in NM condition with light wear, accompanied by a vintage Balfour ring box and an additional LOA.

Why This Ring Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents the 1976 Cincinnati Reds’ World Series victory, a pinnacle of baseball excellence.
• Iconic Team: Commemorates the “Great Eight,” a lineup that set new standards in baseball.
• Unique Provenance: Presented to Santo Alcala, a key contributor to the Reds’ success.
• Exquisite Craftsmanship: Features intricate details and a .50-carat diamond, symbolizing the team’s triumph.

This remarkable piece of baseball memorabilia is a testament to the enduring legacy of the 1976 Cincinnati Reds. It stands as a symbol of a team that redefined excellence and left an indelible mark on the history of the sport. For those who wish to explore more about this era or consider adding such treasures to their collection, visit our sports memorabilia auctions page. If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share it with the world.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.