Tommy Helms, a former Cincinnati Reds second baseman and two-time manager, has passed away at the age of 83. Known for his defensive prowess, Helms played 14 seasons in the MLB, earning accolades such as the 1966 NL Rookie of the Year and Gold Gloves in 1970-71 as the NL's top-fielding second baseman. He formed a strong double-play combination with shortstop Dave Concepcion during his time with the Reds.
Helms transitioned from the minor leagues to the majors in 1966, initially replacing Pete Rose at second base before moving to third base due to Rose's discomfort. Following his tenure with the Reds, Helms played for the Houston Astros and had brief stints with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Boston Red Sox. He managed the Reds in 1988 and 1989 during Pete Rose's suspensions, also serving as a coach under various managers. Inducted into the Reds Hall of Fame in 1979, Helms leaves behind a legacy in baseball, survived by his wife Cathy and preceded in death by his sons Tommy Jr. and Ryan, both minor league players in the early 1990s.