Joey Votto Announces Retirement: A Legendary Career Comes to a Close
Joey Votto, the Cincinnati Reds' iconic first baseman, has officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. This decision marks the end of an illustrious 17-season career that left an indelible mark on the sport. Votto, at 40 years old, closes the book on a journey that began when the Reds drafted him in the second round of the 2002 draft.
The Rise of a Star
Votto made his major league debut for the Reds in September 2007 at the age of 23. In a glimpse of what was to come, he slashed an impressive .321/.360/.548 over 89 plate appearances in his rookie year. By 2008, Votto had firmly established himself, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting. His consistency and skill continued to shine as he earned six All-Star selections throughout his career.
A Legacy of Excellence
2010 was a standout year for Votto, as he captured the National League MVP award. That season, he led the league in on-base percentage, walks, OPS, and WAR, showcasing his multifaceted talent. Votto also had seasons where he led the league in slugging percentage, doubles, and OPS+. His ability to get on base was a defining feature of his game, leading the league in on-base percentage seven times and walks five times.
Peak Performance
From 2009 to 2017, Votto reached the peak of his career, posting a remarkable slash line of .315/.436/.545 and a 162 OPS+. This period solidified his reputation as one of the most disciplined and powerful hitters in the game. His career slash line of .294/.409/.511 (144 OPS+) underlines his sustained excellence at the plate.
Record-Setting Achievements
Votto's career numbers are a testament to his longevity and productivity: 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, and 1,171 runs scored. These statistics contributed to a career WAR of 64.5. For the Cincinnati Reds, Votto ranks second in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. Notably, he is the franchise leader in walks and ranks fourth in career WAR.
A Final Glove and Near Misses
Beyond his offensive prowess, Votto also earned a Gold Glove award, demonstrating his defensive capabilities. His impact was felt beyond his MVP season, as he finished in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons. In 2015, he finished third, and in 2017, he was the MVP runner-up.
An Unexpected Turn
In an interesting twist, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays during the offseason following his tenure with the Reds. However, despite his efforts, he did not make it back to the majors in 2024. This development, while surprising, does not overshadow the remarkable career he carved out over nearly two decades.
Conclusion
Joey Votto's retirement brings to close one of the most storied careers in modern baseball history. His contributions to the Cincinnati Reds and the broader baseball community will be remembered for years to come. As fans and peers celebrate his achievements, Votto's legacy as a player who combined talent, work ethic, and a deep understanding of the game will endure.