After an illustrious career spanning 17 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, Joey Votto has bid adieu to Major League Baseball. Votto, now 40, leaves behind a legacy etched into the annals of Reds history and the broader MLB landscape.
A Stellar Career from the Outset
Joey Votto's journey began when the Cincinnati Reds drafted him in the second round of the 2002 MLB Draft. Fast forward to September 2007, and the young slugger made his debut with the Reds at the age of 23. It didn't take long for Votto to make a mark; during his rookie year, he turned heads with a slash line of .321/.360/.548 in just 89 plate appearances, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008.
Achievements and Accolades
Throughout his career, Votto collected numerous accolades, including six All-Star selections and the coveted National League MVP award in 2010. His prowess at the plate was undeniable, leading the league in on-base percentage seven times, walks five times, OPS twice, and once each for slugging percentage, doubles, WAR, and OPS+.
During a peak period from 2009 to 2017, Votto was an offensive powerhouse, boasting a batting average of .315, an on-base percentage of .436, and a slugging percentage of .545. His 162 OPS+ during this tenure highlights his dominance compared to his peers.
Legacy in Numbers
Votto's career statistics tell the story of a player who excelled in multiple facets of the game. He retires with 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs scored, and a 64.5 WAR. His career slash line of .294/.409/.511 underscores his consistent ability to get on base and drive in runs.
Among the Reds' all-time greats, Votto ranks second in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. He is the franchise's all-time leader in walks and stands fourth in career WAR, further solidifying his place in Reds history.
Unfulfilled Comeback
After a stint with the Toronto Blue Jays in the offseason, Votto aimed to make a comeback in the majors in 2024, but unfortunately, he did not make it back to the big stage. Despite this, his career remains a testament to talent, hard work, and perseverance.
Final Reflections
Votto's influence extends beyond the numbers. Known for his disciplined eye at the plate and his penchant for drawing walks, he was both a nightmare for pitchers and a strategic asset for his team. His fielding prowess also earned him a Gold Glove award, showcasing his all-around contributions to the game.
Joey Votto's career will undoubtedly be remembered not just for the statistics, but for the passion and dedication he brought to the field every day. As he steps away from the game, he leaves behind a rich legacy that will inspire future generations of baseball players.
In an era where player turnover is high, Votto's extended stay with the Reds is a rare narrative of loyalty and lasting excellence. While he may no longer don the Reds jersey, his impact on the team and the sport will endure for years to come.