1940 World Series Championship

Lore & Background

Cincinnati won 100 games for the first time in franchise history. The team finished first in the National League with a record of 100–53, winning the pennant by 12 games over the Brooklyn Dodgers, and the best record in MLB. They went on to face the Detroit Tigers in the 1940 World Series, beating them in seven games. This was their first championship since 1919. In August, back up catcher Willard Hershberger, depressed over what he felt was culpability for losing both games of a doubleheader, took his life. Coach Jimmie Wilson was added to the roster as the back up catcher. The Reds players would vote to send Hershberger's share of the World Series winnings to his mother.

In Their Own Story

The air inside Crosley Field was thick with cigarette smoke and anticipation on that final October afternoon. In the stands, a veteran fan clutched his program tightly, watching as the pitcher wound up one last time. The crowd roared not just for a win, but for the validation of their city's pride against Detroit's industrial might. When the final out was recorded, the dugout erupted in a chaotic embrace, knowing this moment would define them for generations to come.

Reader's Guide

The 1940 World Series was played between the Cincinnati Reds and the Detroit Tigers. The Reds won the series four games to three. Game 1 was on October 2, 1940, at Crosley Field in Cincinnati. Game 2 was on October 3, 1940, at Crosley Field. Game 3 was on October 4, 1940, at Briggs Stadium in Detroit. Game 4 was on October 5, 1940, at Briggs Stadium. Game 5 was on October 6, 1940, at Briggs Stadium. Game 6 was on October 7, 1940, at Crosley Field. Game 7 was on October 8, 1940, at Crosley Field.

Did You Know?

• The Reds won 100 games for the first time in franchise history in 1940.
• Backup catcher Willard Hershberger took his own life in August 1940, and his share of World Series winnings was sent to his mother.
• The 1940 World Series was the Reds' first championship since 1919.