A Hidden Gem in the Statue of Reds Icon Tony Perez

Even the most dedicated Cincinnati Reds supporters may not be aware of an intriguing detail related to one of the statues outside Great American Ball Park. The collection of bronze player statues celebrates the franchise's legendary figures, including Pete Rose, Joe Nuxhall, Joe Morgan, and Johnny Bench, each piece meticulously crafted to reflect their significance in baseball history.

Among these statues, the one honoring Tony Perez stands out for a particular reason. Unveiled in 2015, it immortalizes the moment when the Reds' first baseman hit a game-changing home run during Game 7 of the 1975 World Series against the Boston Red Sox. This crucial two-run homer, which sailed over Fenway Park's Green Monster, helped propel the Reds to a 4-3 victory.

However, the statue possesses a subtle secret that is easy to overlook. To discover this hidden detail, one must turn around and gaze at the top of the building directly across Joe Nuxhall Way. There, a bronze-colored baseball can be seen perched atop the Current at The Banks apartment building, symbolizing the trajectory of Perez's historic home run.

This clever addition was conceived by Tom Tsuchiya, the artist responsible for the Reds' statues. Tsuchiya believed it would be "really cool" to highlight Perez's impact during a pivotal moment in Reds lore. "It is kind of an Easter egg and I did that for that reason," Tsuchiya explained. "Some people know about it, but the majority of people have no idea, and that's also kind of the fun part."

Interestingly, the baseball replica is not made from the same material as the statue. Tsuchiya opted for a foam core coated in plastic to ensure safety in case it were to detach. This hidden feature is one of Tsuchiya's favorites among the various statues he has created. He pointed out another cherished detail: a figure of Rosie Red discreetly carved on the backside of the Pete Rose statue, serving as a nod to the Rosie Reds organization that assisted him in the statue's creation.

Next time you visit Crosley Terrace at Great American Ball Park, keep an eye out for not only the baseball symbolizing Perez's legendary home run but also the other hidden touches on the statues that celebrate the rich history of the Reds.