Joey Votto Announces Retirement from Major League Baseball
Joey Votto, one of the most distinguished first basemen of his generation, has officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. The 40-year-old Votto brought an end to a remarkable 17-season career with the Cincinnati Reds, a career that began when he was drafted by the team in the second round of the 2002 draft.
Votto made his debut with the Reds in September 2007 at the age of 23 and immediately showcased his potential. In his rookie year, he slashed .321/.360/.548 in 89 plate appearances, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008. This initial success was just a hint of what was to come.
Throughout his career, Votto was a consistent offensive powerhouse. He was a six-time All-Star and won the 2010 National League MVP award. His ability to reach base was unparalleled, leading the league in on-base percentage seven times and in walks five times. Votto also led the league in OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once, establishing himself as a complete and versatile hitter.
During his peak years from 2009 to 2017, Votto's performance was nothing short of elite. His slash line over that period was .315/.436/.545 with a remarkable 162 OPS+, underscoring his ability to combine power with an exceptional eye at the plate. This dominant period solidified his status as one of the best hitters of his era.
Votto's career statistics are a testament to his enduring excellence. He accumulated 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 for a 144 OPS+ reflects his consistent production over nearly two decades in the majors. He ranks second in Reds history in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base, and he holds the franchise record for most walks.
His defensive prowess should not be overlooked either, as evidenced by his Gold Glove award. Votto’s excellence was consistently recognized, with him finishing in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons, including as runner-up in 2017 and third place in 2015.
Following his illustrious tenure with the Reds, Votto made headlines during the offseason by signing with the Toronto Blue Jays. However, despite the high hopes surrounding his move, he did not make it back to the majors in the 2024 season. This turn of events ultimately led to his decision to retire.
Votto leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, consistency, and profound impact on the game. His approach at the plate, characterized by patience and power, has inspired countless young players and earned him the respect and admiration of fans and peers alike. His contributions to the game and his franchise are immeasurable, making Joey Votto's career one that will be remembered with great fondness and admiration for years to come.