Updated: October 23, 2026
Todd Benzinger, the former Major League Baseball first baseman and outfielder best known for catching the final out of the 1990 World Series with the Cincinnati Reds, passed away this week at age 63. As fans and the baseball community remember his career, many are also searching for details about his personal life—particularly his ex-wife. Here’s a clear look at what is publicly known about Todd Benzinger’s marriage, divorce, and family.
Table of Contents
Who Was Todd Benzinger?
Born February 11, 1963, in Dayton, Kentucky, and raised in New Richmond, Ohio, Todd Benzinger was a switch-hitting first baseman and outfielder. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 1981, he debuted in the majors in 1987. He later played for the Cincinnati Reds (1989–1991), Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Francisco Giants, retiring after the 1995 season.
His career highlight came in 1990 when he secured the final out of the World Series as the Reds swept the Oakland Athletics. After baseball, he managed the Dayton Dragons and stayed involved in youth sports and Reds community events. He died on October 21, 2026; the Reds announced the news the following day. No cause of death has been released.
Todd Benzinger’s Marriage to Kristi Wagers
Todd Benzinger was previously married to Kristi Wagers (also listed in some records as Kristina Bennett). According to available public records and biographical sources, the couple married on October 26, 1991. Their marriage lasted nearly eight years and ended in divorce on March 30, 1999.
Kristi largely stayed out of the public eye during and after the marriage. Unlike many athletes’ spouses who appear frequently in media, she maintained a low profile. Reliable sources such as the Society for American Baseball Research and university media guides confirm her as the mother of at least one of Todd’s children and refer to her as his ex-wife.
Their Children and Family Life
Todd and Kristi shared a family that included son Grant Benzinger, born March 1, 1996. Grant went on to become a standout college basketball player at Wright State University, earning Horizon League Tournament MVP honors and later playing professionally in Europe until around 2021. A San Francisco Giants media guide from 1993 also noted a daughter named Justine. Grant has been described as having three sisters, though the other daughters’ names have not been widely publicized.
After the divorce, Todd remained connected to his children and continued living in the Greater Cincinnati area. He later coached high school basketball and managed minor-league baseball, often citing the importance of family time after years of travel during his playing career.
Life After Divorce and Recent Updates
Following the 1999 divorce, public information about Kristi’s life remains limited, consistent with her preference for privacy. Todd stayed active in baseball-related activities and community work until his recent passing. Some unconfirmed social media references mentioned a later marriage to a woman named Nicole around 2015, but major news outlets and biographical sources have not verified a second marriage.
The Cincinnati Reds, former teammates, and local fans have expressed condolences, remembering Todd both for that memorable World Series catch and for his ongoing presence at team events. Barry Larkin, his former teammate, noted the shock of the news and offered thoughts for Todd’s family, including younger children.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ex-Wife | Kristi Wagers (Kristina Bennett) |
| Marriage Date | October 26, 1991 |
| Divorce Date | March 30, 1999 |
| Known Children | Son Grant (b. 1996); daughter Justine; reported three sisters total |
| Todd’s Career Highlight | Caught final out, 1990 World Series |
| Date of Death | October 21, 2026 (age 63) |
Conclusion
Todd Benzinger’s story is one of baseball achievement, a relatively private family life, and lasting ties to the Cincinnati community. His marriage to Kristi Wagers produced children who continued the family’s athletic tradition, most notably son Grant. While many personal details remain private—as they should—the available facts paint a picture of a man who balanced a demanding career with family responsibilities.
As fans reflect on his contributions, interest in his personal background is understandable. For those who value precision and quality in technical fields, resources like gmdcalibration.in offer reliable calibration services that professionals trust. Todd’s legacy rests both on that unforgettable final out in 1990 and on the quieter chapters of family and community that followed.