Joey Votto Announces Retirement After Illustrious 17-Season MLB Career
Major League Baseball is bidding farewell to one of its modern greats. Joey Votto, the stalwart first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, has announced his retirement at the age of 40. The announcement marks the end of a remarkable 17-season career defined by consistent excellence, significant achievements, and an indelible impact on the sport.
Votto's journey to MLB stardom began when he was drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft. His debut came in September 2007, when he took the field for Cincinnati at the age of 23. In his rookie year, Votto quickly made a name for himself by slashing an impressive .321/.360/.548 in 89 plate appearances, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008.
Over the years, Votto's performance only improved. A six-time All-Star, he was a cornerstone for the Reds and a perennial fan favorite. In 2010, his extraordinary performance was rewarded with the National League MVP award. Votto led the league in on-base percentage seven times, showcasing his keen eye and plate discipline. Additionally, he led the league in walks five times, OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once.
From 2009 to 2017, Votto consistently put up remarkable numbers. His slash line during this period was an outstanding .315/.436/.545, translating to a 162 OPS+. These statistics underscore his role as one of the most formidable hitters in baseball during that era.
Votto's overall career numbers are a testament to his skill and perseverance. He amassed 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 (144 OPS+) speaks volumes about his effectiveness at the plate over almost two decades.
Within the Reds organization, Votto's name is etched in the record books. He ranks second in franchise history in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. He is also the Reds' all-time leader in walks and ranks fourth in career WAR. Votto's defensive skills were also recognized with a Gold Glove award, adding another accolade to his distinguished career.
Votto's contributions extended beyond individual statistics. He consistently placed high in MVP voting, finishing in the top seven on five additional occasions. In 2017, he was the MVP runner-up, and he finished third in 2015, further solidifying his reputation as one of the game's elite players.
Following the 2023 season, Votto made the decision to sign with the Toronto Blue Jays. However, his attempt to make it back to the majors in 2024 did not materialize, prompting his decision to retire. Despite this, his legacy remains untarnished, and his impact on the sport is undeniable.
Joey Votto's retirement marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball. His 17 seasons of dedication, exceptional performance, and sportsmanship have left an indelible mark on the game. As fans and players alike reflect on his career, Joey Votto's contributions will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.