Bench bats for backstopping buddies, supports Rodriguez at Hall of Fame induction to spark Twitter overload

It’s been a while -- we think -- since Johnny Bench strapped on the tools of ignorance, yet the Reds’ Hall of Famer remains beholden to the craft of catching so over the weekend he connected with his baseball brethren while attending Hall of Fame inductions in Cooperstown, N.Y.

Former catcher Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez --who played chiefly with the Rangers among six MLB teams -- was tabbed, and Bench was there. Look at him busting out the old-school camera!

Induction Day in Cooperstown...legends aplenty @Pudge_Rodriguez @Rangers @Evan_P_Grant @MLB @baseballhall @SportsDayDFW @JohnnyBench_5 pic.twitter.com/RXoBEUplRp
— Louis DeLuca (@ldelucaDMN) July 31, 2017

I see you @JohnnyBench_5 ! #hof #BagwellHOF

📷 pic.twitter.com/W2uwIVPcty— Karen Warren (@karenwarrenHC) July 30, 2017

Having been in the Hall of Fame since 1989, Bench has over the years since supported catchers when they enter the hall, and this year was no different as can be seen here in this photo of him with Rodgriguez and fellow Hall of Fame catchers Carlton Fisk and Mike Piazza.

The Bronze Backstops. Welcome to the Hall @Pudge_Rodriguez. pic.twitter.com/G2B5FWJhxl
— Johnny Bench (@JohnnyBench_5) July 31, 2017

We're getting a new catcher in the @baseballhall today. Welcome @Pudge_Rodriguez from me and last year's C inductee @mikepiazza31. pic.twitter.com/A2Mn6I5PvP
— Johnny Bench (@JohnnyBench_5) July 30, 2017

Bench took time out during a busy day to send out condolences upon learning of the passing of former teammate Lee May.

Mr. Noe was special! RIP Big Bopper Lee May
— Johnny Bench (@JohnnyBench_5) July 30, 2017

It looks like the former Reds catcher had a nice time as Rodriguez, Jeff Bagwell, Tim Raines, John Schuerholz and Bud Selig joined him in the Hall of Fame.

One of our many great traditions. All HoFers in attendance sign a bat for each other. #HOFWKND @baseballhall pic.twitter.com/C4aOpRaWnm
— Johnny Bench (@JohnnyBench_5) July 29, 2017

Reds fans had a good time, too, and they were busy saying so.