Joey Votto, a Cincinnati Reds legend, has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after 17 seasons. Votto, 40, made the announcement in a social media post where he thanked his family, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his career. The Toronto native was a second-round pick by the Reds in 2002 and made his MLB debut in 2007. He went on to become one of the best players in franchise history, hitting .294/.409/.511 with a .920 career OPS over 2,056 games. Votto expressed his love for the city of Cincinnati and his desire to play for his hometown team, Toronto, in his retirement announcement.
Despite never playing for his hometown team, Votto will be forever remembered for his contributions to the Reds organization. He thanked Dusty Baker, Scott Rolen, Jay Bruce, and all of his teammates for teaching him valuable lessons in professionalism and sportsmanship. Votto also expressed his gratitude to MLB fans for their support and even acknowledged the moments where he faced adversity with a smile. Throughout his career, Votto amassed 2,135 hits, 356 home runs, and 1,144 RBIs, showcasing his exceptional eye at the plate by leading the NL in walks five times.
Votto’s retirement post was emotional and heartfelt, as he reflected on his time in baseball and the impact the game had on his life. He credited baseball for allowing him to be his best self and play with every ounce of his body, heart, and mind. Votto expressed his gratitude to the sport for giving him the opportunity to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional baseball player. Despite not being able to play for his hometown team, Votto ended his career with a sense of fulfillment and appreciation for the experiences he had in the game.
Throughout his retirement announcement, Votto expressed his appreciation for his family, coaches, teammates, and fans who supported him throughout his career. He highlighted the moments that shaped him as a player, including his debut at Wrigley Field and the challenges he faced on the field. Votto’s dedication to the game of baseball was evident in his words as he reflected on the impact it had on his life and the joy it brought him over the years. As he bids farewell to the sport, Votto leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by fans, teammates, and the baseball community.
Votto’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball. His impact on the game and his dedication to his craft will be remembered for years to come. As he closes the chapter on his playing career, Votto looks forward to the next chapter in his life, grateful for the opportunities and experiences that baseball has given him. His retirement announcement serves as a tribute to the sport that shaped him and the memories he created on the field. Joey Votto’s legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and the history of the game he loved.
