Joey Votto's Remarkable Career Comes to a Close
Joey Votto has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, concluding a storied 17-season career with the Cincinnati Reds. At 40 years old, Votto leaves a legacy as one of baseball's premier first basemen, a player who combined excellence at the plate with a sterling glove in the field.
Votto's journey with the Reds began when he was drafted in the second round of the 2002 draft. Making his debut in September 2007 at the age of 23, Votto quickly showcased his potential. In his rookie year, he impressed with a slash line of .321/.360/.548 over 89 plate appearances, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008.
Over the course of his career, Votto amassed numerous accolades, including six All-Star appearances and the 2010 National League MVP award. Known for his exceptional plate discipline, Votto led the league in on-base percentage seven times and in walks five times. His prowess was further demonstrated by his league-leading figures in OPS (twice), slugging percentage (once), doubles (once), WAR (once), and OPS+ (once).
From 2009 to 2017, Votto was at his peak, posting a slash line of .315/.436/.545 and an impressive 162 OPS+. These numbers solidified his status as one of the game's elite hitters. His career totals underline his contributions to the Reds: 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs, and a 64.5 WAR. Votto’s career slash line stands at .294/.409/.511 (144 OPS+).
In the annals of Reds history, Votto ranks second in several key categories, including on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. He is the franchise leader in walks and ranks fourth in career WAR. Additionally, his defensive skills earned him a Gold Glove award.
Votto’s commitment to the game and his team extended beyond individual accolades. He finished in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons, showing his consistent high-level performance. In 2015, he finished third in MVP voting, and he was the MVP runner-up in 2017, further highlighting his lasting impact on the game.
In a significant move during the offseason, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays. However, he did not make it back to the majors in 2024. Despite this, Votto's career remains a shining example of excellence and dedication in Major League Baseball.
Joey Votto’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Reds and their fans, who witnessed the growth and achievements of a player who will be remembered not only for his raw statistics but also for his passion for the game and his leadership on and off the field.
As the curtain falls on Joey Votto's illustrious career, the Cincinnati Reds and baseball fans everywhere will forever cherish the moments and milestones that defined his time in the Major Leagues. Votto’s contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark, ensuring his place among the greats in baseball history.