CINCINNATI (WKRC) - When the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade steps off Tuesday afternoon, a familiar face will be leading the way.

It won't be the first Opening Day for Barry Larkin.

The Hall of Famer spent 19 years in a Reds uniform.

But it will be the first time the Cincinnati native has had a chance to experience a timeless opening day tradition.

"Honestly, this is my first opening day parade that I'll be a part of,” Larkin said. “I did watch it on TV a few times, but this is my first time physically being a part of it. I remember talking to my mom and dad about trying to skip school a couple of times so I could go be part of it. That didn't happen, but at least we tried."

The consummate leader on the field, it is only fitting that the man to lead the way in the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade is the captain himself.

"It's such a big deal,” Larkin said. “I know it's such a big deal. I remember growing up in the city, and being such a big fan, and the anticipation of seeing how guys were going to play, and the season getting started, and just always looking forward to that opening day parade. So, I'm honored to be a part of it, and honored to be the grand marshal."

"I just think it's the interaction,” Larkin said. “It's the energy. It's the buildup to the season. That's what I really enjoyed as a fan growing up in Cincinnati, looking forward to the season, but the precursor was always the opening day parade."

It'll be a busy day for Larkin.

After he fulfills his grand marshal duties, he will call the game in the Reds TV broadcast booth.

And while fans are frustrated by the recent trades of guys like Winker, Suarez, Garrett, and Gray, Larkin has faith in the direction of his old club.

"I've seen a lot of commentary about not caring about winning,” Larkin said. “I don't think that's anywhere close to being true. I feel like the moves, albeit unpopular, were consistent with what the organization is attempting to do to try to get to that level of consistent, competitive teams on the field."

If the Reds do happen to make a little magic this season, Larkin says he'll be happiest for the longest tenured and most decorated member of the team.

"I don't know how many more years left Joey has to play, but he deserves an opportunity to play in the postseason, and go deep in the postseason,” Larkin said. "There's a lot of positive stuff happening in Cincinnati, and hopefully the Reds can keep it going."