Joey Votto, a Cincinnati Reds legend, has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after 17 seasons at the age of 40. He made the announcement in a social media post, thanking his parents and others who supported him throughout his career. Votto was a second-round pick by the Reds in 2002 and made his MLB debut in 2007, eventually becoming one of the best players in franchise history with a .294/.409/.511 career batting line over 2,056 games. Despite his success in Cincinnati, Votto expressed a desire to play for his hometown team in Toronto but acknowledged that he was no longer able to perform at the level required.
Throughout his career, Votto was known for his exceptional eye at the plate, leading the National League in walks in five of his 17 seasons and finishing with 1,365 free passes. He also compiled 2,135 hits, 356 home runs, and 1,144 RBIs. Votto expressed gratitude for the game of baseball, which he poured his entire life into, allowing him to be his best self on the field. He reflected on memorable moments throughout his career, including the support and energy from fans, both positive and negative, that fueled his passion for the game.
Votto highlighted the impact of various mentors and teammates on his career, including Dusty Baker, Scott Rolen, and Jay Bruce, who helped shape him into a professional player. Despite his success, Votto expressed a sense of humility and appreciation for the opportunity to compete at the highest level for his entire career with the Reds. He also expressed gratitude for the support from fans, acknowledging the moments of adversity and triumph that shaped his journey in baseball.
The decision to retire was a difficult one for Votto, as he acknowledged his desire to play for his hometown team in Toronto and the challenges of maintaining his performance at a high level as he got older. However, he remained grateful for the opportunity to play the sport he loved and to represent the city of Cincinnati throughout his career. Votto’s retirement marks the end of a storied career in Major League Baseball, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the game’s premier hitters and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
As he bids farewell to baseball, Votto expressed his deep gratitude to the sport for allowing him to be his true self on the field and for the tremendous support he received from fans, mentors, and teammates throughout his career. He recognized the sacrifices and dedication required to compete at the highest level and expressed his love for the game that shaped his life. Votto’s retirement represents the closing of a chapter in baseball history, but his impact and legacy in the sport will continue to be remembered by those who had the privilege of watching him play.
