Three Cincinnati Reds' legends will soon enter the team's Hall of Fame at Great American Ball Park. The 2026 induction class features Brandon Phillips, Reggie Sanders, Lou Piniella and the workhorse pitcher, Aaron Harang.
Ahead of his induction ceremony, Harang joined the "That's So Cincinnati" podcast to reflect on his days as a Red and how he reacted when he got the Hall of Fame call. He even shared fond memories (and a few funny stories) from the dugout, including the reason for keeping gum in his jacket.
He'd stick nine pieces of gum in his jacket before each start, tossing in a new one each inning. If there was gum left over after a start, the job felt unfinished.
"I wanted to throw complete games every game," Harang said. "I wanted the bullpen guys to have a day off. I just wanted to be the guy to go out there and get it done on the mound."
For the majority of the 2000s, Harang was atop the Reds' starting rotation. Now, he spends most of his days as the head softball coach of Santa Fe Christian in his hometown of San Diego, California, and he helps with the baseball team, too.
Harang said he's excited (and even a little nervous) to get back to the Queen City. It will not only be a special moment for him but for his family.
The righty told the "That's So Cincinnati" crew he's ready to be back on the field at Great American Ball Park. He's also revelling in all the "dad points" he's going to score this weekend once his kids see how big of a name Harang is in Cincinnati.
Led the National League in complete games (6) and strikeouts (216) in 2006.
Finished fourth in NL CY Young Award voting in 2007.
Reds' Opening Day starter in five consecutive seasons (2006-2010).
To hear Harang discuss what he is up to and reminisce about his Reds days, take a listen to the "That's So Cincinnati" podcast at the top of the page.
"That’s So Cincinnati," The Enquirer’s weekly podcast on what's making news in our community, features a who’s who of special guests. Find it at Audioboom, Apple or your favorite podcast platform.
The Enquirer's Shelby Dermer contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Reds legend Aaron Harang ready to score 'dad points' in Cincinnati