After an illustrious 17-season career with the Cincinnati Reds, Joey Votto has officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball at the age of 40. Votto's career, characterized by consistent excellence and impressive achievements, leaves an indelible mark on the sport and the Reds franchise.
Early Years and Rise to Stardom
Drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft, Votto made his debut in September 2007, showcasing his potential at the age of 23. His rookie campaign in 2008 hinted at the greatness that would follow, as Votto slashed an impressive .321/.360/.548 in 89 plate appearances and finished second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting.
All-Star and MVP Caliber
Votto's career soared as he became a six-time All-Star, solidifying his place among the league's elite. His pinnacle came in 2010 when he was named the National League MVP, a season where he also led the league in on-base percentage, a feat he would repeat seven times throughout his career. Votto's keen eye at the plate also saw him lead the league in walks on five occasions.
From 2009 to 2017, Votto consistently demonstrated his prowess with a slash line of .315/.436/.545 and a remarkable 162 OPS+. This period underscored his ability to combine power with plate discipline, a rare and valuable combination in baseball.
Dominance in Key Metrics
Votto's reach extended to other vital statistics as well. He led the league in OPS twice, slugging percentage once, doubles once, WAR once, and OPS+ once. These accomplishments highlight his well-rounded skills and ability to contribute in various facets of the game.
Votto's career numbers reflect his prolonged excellence and consistency. He amassed 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, 356 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, 1,171 runs, and a stellar .294/.409/.511 career slash line with a 144 OPS+. His 64.5 career WAR showcases his value over nearly two decades.
Legacy Within the Reds Organization
Within the Cincinnati Reds' storied history, Votto's name ranks among the greats. He stands second in franchise history in on-base percentage, doubles, total bases, home runs, OPS, extra-base hits, and times on base. Notably, he is the all-time Reds leader in walks, a testament to his discipline and strategic approach at the plate.
Votto's impact was also felt defensively, earning him a Gold Glove award. His consistency and excellence were recognized with top-seven finishes in MVP voting in five additional seasons, including a runner-up finish in 2017 and a third-place finish in 2015.
Final Chapter and Retirement
In the final phase of his career, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays during the offseason. However, he did not make it back to the majors in 2024, signaling the end of an era.
Joey Votto's legacy is one of determination, skill, and exceptional performance. As he steps away from the game, his contributions to baseball and the Cincinnati Reds will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.