Joey Votto Announces Retirement: A Distinguished Career Comes to an End
After an illustrious 17-season stint with the Cincinnati Reds, Joey Votto has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. At 40 years old, the decorated first baseman leaves behind a legacy filled with remarkable achievements, underscoring his status as one of the greatest players in Reds history.
From High School to MLB Stardom
Drafted out of high school by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft, Votto's journey to the majors began with promise and potential. He made his debut with the Reds in September 2007 at the age of 23, giving fans a glimpse of what was to come by slashing .321/.360/.548 in 89 plate appearances during his rookie year.
The following season, Votto continued to showcase his talent, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008. This set the stage for a career that would see him dominate at the plate and become a household name among baseball aficionados.
A Legacy of Excellence
Throughout his career, Votto's consistency and excellence were evident in his statistics and accolades. A six-time All-Star and the winner of the 2010 National League MVP award, Votto was a force to be reckoned with at the plate. He led the league in on-base percentage seven times, walks five times, OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once.
During his prime years from 2009 to 2017, Votto compiled an impressive slash line of .315/.436/.545, earning a 162 OPS+. His overall career numbers are just as formidable: 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs, and a 64.5 WAR. Votto's career slash line of .294/.409/.511 (144 OPS+) paints the picture of a hitter who combined power, patience, and precision at the plate.
Milestones and Honors
In addition to his individual accolades, Votto's contributions to the Reds franchise are significant. He ranks second in Reds history in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. He is also the all-time Reds leader in walks and ranks fourth in career WAR for the franchise. Votto's name sits among the Reds' legends like Joe Morgan, Pete Rose, and Johnny Bench.
Votto's Gold Glove award further highlighted his defensive prowess, illustrating his ability to excel on both sides of the ball. Not only did he consistently lead by example, but he also finished in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons, including a runner-up in 2017 and a third-place finish in 2015.
Final Chapter with the Blue Jays
In a twist of fate, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays during the offseason but was never able to make it back to the majors in 2024. Despite not getting an opportunity to play for the Blue Jays, his career remains a testament to dedication, perseverance, and outstanding performance.
A Fitting Conclusion to a Stellar Career
Joey Votto's retirement marks the end of an era for Reds fans and baseball enthusiasts alike. His individual statistical line and the records he set for the Reds clearly place him in the conversation as one of the franchise's greatest players. With his retirement, Major League Baseball bids farewell to one of the most respected and skilled hitters of his generation.
As the curtain falls on Votto's career, his contributions to the sport will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. From his National League MVP award to leading the league in numerous offensive categories, Joey Votto's legacy is cemented as a model of excellence on the baseball diamond.