Joey Votto, the longtime first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds and a six-time All-Star, has announced his retirement from baseball at the age of 40. The former National League MVP made his announcement through a short video on social media, accompanied by a heartfelt written message expressing gratitude for his career.
“I was myself in this sport,” Votto shared. “I was able to be my best self. I played this sport with every last ounce of my body, heart, and mind. Thank you for everything.”
Votto disclosed his decision after recording the video outside Sahlen Field in Buffalo, where he had been playing for the Toronto Blue Jays’ Triple-A team. Following a Reds victory over the Blue Jays, he visited the Cincinnati clubhouse to connect with former teammates and manager David Bell.
After signing a minor league contract with the Blue Jays in March, Votto had faced challenges, including a lengthy recovery from an ankle injury. During his time in Triple-A, he struggled with a batting average of .143, managing only one home run and four RBIs in 15 games, and striking out 22 times.
Reflecting on his performance, Votto admitted, “I was awful down there.” Despite having “zero regrets” about his decision to retire, he expressed disappointment over not being able to play for the Blue Jays this season, as he had hoped to perform at home among family and friends.
Votto’s successful career with the Reds spanned 17 seasons, during which he achieved a .294 batting average, 356 home runs, and 1,144 RBIs across 2,056 games. He was known for leading the National League in on-base percentage seven times and winning a Gold Glove award in 2011.
As he considered the changes in the game, Votto noted, “This game is faster. I’m not fast. This game is about more dynamic defense. At some point, the writing is on the wall.”
Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson praised Votto, stating, “It was an honor to get to know him as a friend and as a player. He’s an all-time great.”
Manager David Bell expressed happiness for Votto’s remarkable career, calling it “just an incredible career.” Blue Jays manager John Schneider also acknowledged Votto’s legacy, stating, “An unbelievable career.”
Votto’s 2023 season was hampered by a shoulder injury, limiting him to just 65 games, with his first appearance coming on June 19, following surgery the previous August. In a brief stint during spring training, he only managed one at-bat before being sidelined due to a mishap in the dugout.
As he closes this chapter of his life, Votto’s impact on the game, particularly as one of the top Canadian players in MLB history, will be remembered.