Reds Longest Homers of 2024: #10 – Will Benson

The 2024 Major League Baseball season was filled with impressive feats from the Cincinnati Reds, with players putting on displays of power and precision. Among those showing off their strength was outfielder Will Benson, whose mammoth home run made a mark on the season. As part of a feature documenting the longest home runs by Reds players, Benson’s blast earned the #10 spot. This note takes a closer look at the details and significance of that remarkable moment.

Will Benson’s Arrival with the Reds

Will Benson’s story as a professional baseball player has been one of promise and potential. Acquired by the Reds from the Cleveland Guardians in a trade during the 2023 offseason, Benson entered the 2024 season with a strong reputation as a player with raw power. Known for his above-average power potential and ability to hit the ball with authority, Benson was expected to bring a new dynamic to the Reds’ outfield.

His 2024 season began with the kind of promise Reds fans had hoped for when the trade was made. Over the course of the year, Benson proved himself to be more than just a power hitter. He developed into an important part of the Reds’ lineup, contributing both offensively and defensively. While his approach at the plate was still refining, there was no question that Benson had the ability to crush the ball when he made solid contact.

The Home Run That Made the List

On a sunny afternoon during the season, Benson found himself in the batter’s box in a game that would be remembered for a singular, explosive moment. Facing a fastball from a mid-tier pitcher, Benson’s focus and confidence were evident. As the pitch came in, he timed it perfectly, meeting the ball with a clean, powerful swing. The crack of the bat echoed through the ballpark, signaling that this was no ordinary hit.

The ball launched off Benson’s bat, a towering shot that soared high into the sky and traveled an incredible distance. It quickly became evident that this was a home run that would find its place among the longest of the season. The ball sailed over the outfield fence with ease, clearing the seats in left-center field. The distance? A whopping 447 feet. It was the kind of blast that left the opposing team in awe and sparked loud cheers from the Reds’ faithful.

The Importance of the Home Run

While Benson’s home run was certainly a highlight of his season, its significance went beyond just the distance it covered. For one, the 447-foot blast was the longest of his career so far in the major leagues, showcasing his tremendous power potential. This was a clear signal that Benson was capable of hitting with authority and that his raw power was translating into production on the field.

Moreover, this home run came at a critical moment for the Reds. As they fought to stay competitive in the playoff race, Benson’s dinger added to the team’s offensive firepower. While the Reds had already been known for their young and exciting lineup, this homer was a reminder that Benson could be a key player in the team’s future success.

Beyond the stats, this moment was also a statement of the shift in the Reds’ identity. In past years, Cincinnati had struggled with consistency in its lineup, but in 2024, they began to see the emergence of players like Benson, who could change the course of a game with one swing. Benson’s home run demonstrated the potential for a new era of power-hitting in Cincinnati, a shift from their traditional emphasis on small ball to a more balanced approach that could compete with the best teams in the league.

Statistical Context and Analysis

Looking at the broader context of the Reds’ 2024 home run totals, Benson’s 447-foot shot landed him among the top contributors on a team full of youthful energy. While other players like Elly De La Cruz and Spencer Steer also had their moments, Benson’s blast was a reminder that the Reds’ offensive depth extended beyond their headline stars.

Comparing this home run to others from the season, it was not the longest blast on the team, but it was one of the most memorable. For a player still establishing himself in the major leagues, hitting a home run of that distance was a testament to Benson’s raw power and his potential to contribute even more in the future.