Joey Votto Announces Retirement from MLB
In a heartfelt announcement that has left fans reflecting on an illustrious career, Joey Votto, the stalwart first baseman, has called time on his Major League Baseball career. Votto’s journey from a promising draftee to a franchise icon spanned 17 seasons, all with the Cincinnati Reds, etching his name into the annals of baseball history.
At 40 years old, Votto leaves the game with a litany of accomplishments that underscore his status as one of the sport’s premier talents. Drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft, Votto made his major league debut in September 2007 at the age of 23, quickly establishing himself as a key player for the franchise.
Votto’s rookie season offered a glimpse of the greatness to come, as he posted a remarkable slash line of .321/.360/.548 in 89 plate appearances. His impressive performance did not go unnoticed, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008. This early success paved the way for a career defined by both consistency and excellence.
Throughout his tenure with the Reds, Votto earned six All-Star selections and the 2010 National League MVP award, a testament to his dominance at the plate. His proficiency in getting on base was unparalleled, leading the league in on-base percentage seven times. Additionally, Votto led the league in walks five times, OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once.
From 2009 to 2017, Votto was at the peak of his powers, boasting a slash line of .315/.436/.545 and a 162 OPS+, a period that solidified his reputation as one of the game’s elite hitters. Over the course of his career, he accumulated 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, and 1,171 runs, culminating in a career WAR of 64.5. His lifetime slash line of .294/.409/.511 (144 OPS+) further highlights his sustained excellence.
Votto’s impact on the Cincinnati 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, while holding the distinction of being the all-time Reds leader in walks. His contributions were not limited to offensive prowess alone, as evidenced by the Gold Glove award he secured, underscoring his defensive capabilities.
Over his career, Votto consistently garnered recognition in MVP voting, finishing in the top seven in five additional seasons, including a runner-up finish in 2017 and third place in 2015. These accolades reflect the high regard in which he was held by peers and pundits alike.
In an offseason move that added a twist to his storied career, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays. However, he did not manage to make it back to the majors in 2024, ultimately leading to his decision to retire. Despite this, his legacy remains untarnished, characterized by his remarkable ability to combine power, precision, and an exceptional eye for the strike zone.
Joey Votto’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati Reds and their fans, who have had the privilege of witnessing one of the game's greats up close. As Votto steps away from the field, he does so as a player who not only excelled statistically but also embodied the dedication and professionalism that defines a true baseball legend.