In a heartfelt announcement, Joey Votto has decided to hang up his cleats, ending a remarkable 17-season career with Major League Baseball's Cincinnati Reds. At 40 years old, Votto's departure marks the close of a storied tenure that saw him become one of the most accomplished players in Reds history.
A Career Begins
Drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft, Votto made his debut with the team in September 2007 at the age of 23. He quickly showcased his potential, with a rookie year performance that boasted a robust .321/.360/.548 slash line over 89 plate appearances. His stellar display earned him a second-place finish in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008, setting the stage for a career marked by consistency and excellence.
Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Votto accumulated a litany of accolades. He was a six-time All-Star and took home the National League MVP award in 2010, a season in which he led the league in on-base percentage, walks, and OPS. Votto's penchant for getting on base was a hallmark of his approach at the plate, leading the league in on-base percentage seven times and walks five times. Additionally, he topped the leaderboards in OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once.
From 2009 to 2017, Votto was at the peak of his powers. During this period, he posted an impressive .315/.436/.545 slash line and a 162 OPS+, firmly establishing himself as one of the premier hitters in the game. His ability to combine power with patience at the plate was unparalleled, making him a perennial threat in the Reds' lineup.
Votto's overall career statistics are a testament to his excellence and longevity. He retires with 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs, and a 64.5 WAR. His career slash line of .294/.409/.511, equating to a 144 OPS+, underscores his consistent performance over nearly two decades.
Legacy in Cincinnati
Votto's impact on the Reds franchise is indelible. He ranks second in Reds history in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. Notably, he is also the all-time Reds leader in walks. His contributions to the team extend beyond individual statistics, as he was a cornerstone of the franchise during his tenure.
Beyond his MVP award, Votto finished in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons, demonstrating his sustained elite performance. In 2017, he was the runner-up for the MVP award and finished third in the voting in 2015. His defensive prowess was also recognized with a Gold Glove award, highlighting his well-rounded game.
A Move to Toronto
In the offseason, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays, a move that many fans hoped would result in a late-career resurgence. However, he did not make it back to the majors in 2024, prompting his decision to retire. While his time with the Blue Jays was brief and didn’t unfold as planned, it does not diminish the legacy he leaves behind.
A Lasting Impact
Joey Votto's career is a storied chapter in Major League Baseball history. His combination of on-base skills, power, and consistency made him one of the game's most respected hitters. As he steps away from the game, his legacy will be remembered by Reds fans and baseball enthusiasts alike, who witnessed his journey from a promising young talent to one of the greats of his generation.