Baseball icon Joey Votto has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, concluding a remarkable 17-season tenure with the Cincinnati Reds. At 40, Votto steps away from a sport where he has left an indelible mark, especially in the annals of his franchise.
A Storied Career
Drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 draft, Votto made his debut with the team in September 2007 at just 23 years old. It didn't take long for him to make waves. In his rookie year, he posted an impressive .321/.360/.548 slash line over 89 plate appearances and finished second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2008.
Throughout his career, Votto was a six-time All-Star and achieved numerous accolades that underscore his impact on the game. In 2010, he was crowned the National League MVP, a testament to his unmatched prowess during that season. His consistency at the plate was evident as he led the league in on-base percentage seven times, in walks five times, in OPS twice, and in slugging percentage, doubles, WAR, and OPS+ once each.
Peak Performance
Between 2009 and 2017, Votto was virtually unstoppable. Over these years, he maintained a slash line of .315/.436/.545 and posted a 162 OPS+, solidifying his reputation as one of the game's elite hitters. This period showcased his peak performance where he stood out not just for his raw numbers but for his critical role in the Reds' lineup.
Votto's overall career statistics are equally impressive. He retires with 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, coupled with a 144 OPS+, speaks volumes about his sustained excellence across nearly two decades.
Reds Franchise Leader
Within the Reds' storied history, Votto has secured his place among the legends. He ranks 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 and stands fourth in career WAR for the team. His defensive skills were also recognized with a Gold Glove award, further cementing his legacy as a complete player.
His MVP-caliber performances were not limited to his 2010 season. Votto finished in the top seven of MVP voting in five additional seasons, coming in as the MVP runner-up in 2017 and finishing third in voting in 2015. These accolades underscore the consistent excellence and value he brought to his team year after year.
The Final Chapter
In a surprising move during the offseason, Votto signed with the Toronto Blue Jays. Although he did not make it back to the majors in 2024, the attempt symbolizes his enduring competitive spirit and love for the game. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable career that will be remembered for his on-field achievements and his contributions to baseball's rich narrative.
As fans and fellow players reflect on Joey Votto's illustrious career, his legacy is secure. A player of his caliber, who exemplified dedication, skill, and sportsmanship, leaves behind a standard for future generations. Votto's journey from a young rookie to a franchise icon and league MVP will be an enduring chapter in Major League Baseball history.