Joey Votto Announces Retirement After Distinguished 17-Season Career
After an illustrious 17-season career, Joey Votto has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. Votto, a towering figure in Cincinnati Reds history, leaves behind a legacy of exceptional performance and unwavering dedication to the sport.
A Career with the Reds
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. His immediate impact was evident as he slashed .321/.360/.548 in 89 plate appearances, setting the stage for a remarkable career. In 2008, his rookie year, Votto finished second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting, a precursor to the numerous accolades that would follow.
Over his career, Votto became a six-time All-Star and won the National League MVP award in 2010. His prowess at the plate was unparalleled as he led the league in on-base percentage seven times and in walks five times. Moreover, he topped the charts in OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once. From 2009 to 2017, Votto maintained an impressive slash line of .315/.436/.545 with a 162 OPS+, cementing his status as one of the league's premier hitters.
Reflecting on his overall career, Votto amassed 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs, and a 64.5 WAR. His career slash line reads .294/.409/.511 (144 OPS+), testament to his consistent excellence at the plate.
A Cincinnati Reds Legend
In the annals of the Cincinnati Reds, Votto's name is enshrined among the greats. He ranks second in franchise history in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. Additionally, he is the all-time Reds leader in walks and ranks fourth in career WAR for the franchise. His defensive skills were also recognized with a Gold Glove award, highlighting his all-around contributions to the team.
Votto's remarkable career saw him finish in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons. He was the MVP runner-up in 2017 and secured a third-place finish in the MVP voting in 2015, underlining his sustained performance at the highest level.
Challenges and a New Chapter
Despite his impressive career, the latter stages were not without challenges. During the offseason, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays but did not make it back to the majors in 2024. At 40 years old, the decision to retire marks the end of an era for one of baseball’s most respected figures.
Joey Votto’s career is a portrait of excellence, resilience, and commitment. As the curtain falls on his playing days, the impact he has made on the game and the Cincinnati Reds will endure, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.
As baseball bids farewell to one of its finest, Joey Votto's legacy will remain a testament to what it means to be a consummate professional and a true master of the craft.