A former MLB catcher and coach, known for his defensive skills and playing for the Atlanta Braves during their 1980s playoff runs.
Bruce Benedict is renowned for his impressive 12-year career as a catcher for the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball (MLB), from 1978 to 1989. During this period, he established himself as an exceptional defensive player, earning recognition as one of the top catchers of his era.
Born on August 18, 1955, in Nebraska, Benedict attended Millard High School (now Millard South High School) before moving on to the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 5th round of the 1976 MLB Draft, marking the beginning of his professional baseball career.
In 1981, Benedict led National League catchers with 73 assists and 48 baserunners caught stealing, earning him a spot as a reserve on the National League All-Star team. The following year, he led the league with a .993 fielding percentage, helping the Braves secure the National League Western Division title.
The highlight of Benedict's 1982 season came when he set an MLB record by throwing out three baserunners in a single inning. Although the Braves lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Championship Series, Benedict's exceptional skills did not go unnoticed.
In 1983, Benedict had a remarkable season, with a batting average above .300 in mid-June. He ended the year with a career-high batting average of .298, two home runs, 43 runs batted in, and a .992 fielding percentage, ranking second among National League catchers, only behind Gary Carter.
Throughout his career, Benedict played in 982 games, accumulating 696 hits in 2,878 at-bats, with a cumulative batting average of .242.
Bruce Benedict's exceptional defensive skills, paired with his ability to hit consistently, made him a valuable asset to the Atlanta Braves. Although he never played for another team, his legacy as one of the top catchers of the 1980s remains, earning him a special place in the hearts of Braves fans.
Benedict's impact on the game extends beyond his on-field achievements. As a coach and scout, he has helped shape the careers of numerous young players, leaving a lasting impression on the world of baseball.
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77 Years Old
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60 Years Old
Left-handed pitcher with 305 wins and 10 All-Star appearances, known for his control and changeup, leading the Atlanta Braves to a World Series title in 1995.
59 Years Old
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61 Years Old
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