Manny Sarmiento was playing first base during an All-Star game in Venezuela and had to go on the mound when all pitchers were already used during an extra inning game. A Cincinnati scout liked what he saw in the 16 year-old, 6 ft 170 pound youngster and urged the Reds to sign him. In 1976 at age 20, the fastball throwing Manny Sarmiento posted a 5-1 record in 22 games. He pitched a total of four years with Cincinnati.