Joey Votto: A Legendary Career Comes to an End
After 17 remarkable seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, Joey Votto announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. At 40 years old, Votto leaves behind a legacy filled with accolades and an indelible mark on both the franchise and the sport.
Drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft, Votto made his MLB debut in September 2007 at the age of 23. His early promise was evident, as he slashed a robust .321/.360/.548 in just 89 plate appearances during his rookie year. This stellar start earned him a runner-up finish in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008.
Votto's career was punctuated by numerous individual accomplishments. He was a six-time All-Star and took home the National League MVP award in 2010. That season, he led the league in on-base percentage, an area where he excelled throughout his career, topping the league in this metric seven times. Additionally, Votto led the league in walks five times, OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once, underscoring his well-rounded offensive prowess.
Between 2009 and 2017, Votto enjoyed a golden phase where his batting slash line was a remarkable .315/.436/.545. His OPS+ during this period stood at an extraordinary 162, reflecting his status as one of the most formidable hitters in the game.
Overall, Votto's career stats solidify his place among the all-time greats. He amassed 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs, and a career WAR of 64.5. His career slash line of .294/.409/.511 (144 OPS+) is a testament to his consistent excellence at the plate.
Within the Reds franchise, Votto ranks second in history in several key categories, including on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. He is the all-time Reds leader in walks, illustrating his keen eye and discipline at the plate. Additionally, he ranks fourth in career WAR for the franchise, highlighting his significant overall contribution to the team’s success over the years.
Votto's defensive skills were also recognized, as he earned a Gold Glove award during his career. Beyond his MVP win in 2010, Votto finished in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons, showcasing his sustained high level of play. He was the MVP runner-up in 2017 and finished third in MVP voting in 2015, further emphasizing his enduring impact on the field.
In the offseason, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays, but unfortunately, he did not manage to make it back to the majors in 2024. Despite this, his legacy remains secure, with fans and analysts alike remembering him as one of the finest players to ever don a Reds uniform.
Joey Votto's retirement marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball. His blend of power, patience, and skill at the plate made him a unique and invaluable player. As the curtain falls on his illustrious career, the baseball world reflects on the extraordinary contributions of a player who not only excelled individually but also inspired many with his dedication and love for the game.