Joey Votto Bids Farewell: Reds Legend Retires After 17 Iconic Seasons

Cincinnati Reds' Joey VottoPhoto byAaron Doster

Former Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Wednesday, closing the chapter on an extraordinary 17-season career with the Reds. Votto, 40, made this decision after the team opted not to exercise his contract option for the 2024 season, making him a free agent.

Votto’s final game at Great American Ball Park took place on September 24, 2023, against the Pittsburgh Pirates. In a poignant moment, as he approached the plate for his last at-bat in the eighth inning, the stadium erupted into a standing ovation. The overwhelming display of admiration from the fans momentarily delayed the first pitch, a testament to the deep bond Votto shared with the Cincinnati community.

Reflecting on the experience, Votto described it as "as special as it gets," and called the ovation "an honor of all honors."

Votto’s career was marked by significant achievements, including six All-Star selections and the National League Most Valuable Player award in 2010, a year in which he was instrumental in leading the Reds to the NL Central division title. Over the course of his career, Votto posted an impressive batting average of .294, an on-base percentage of .409, and a slugging percentage of .511, hitting 356 home runs, driving in 1,144 runs, and recording 459 doubles. He received MVP votes in nine seasons, finishing in the top 10 six times.

In his retirement message, Votto expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Cincinnati fans and baseball enthusiasts across the country. "You energized me with your cheers. I loved the boos, the trash talk, the moments where I broke a road city's momentum or was humbled on stage," Votto shared. He fondly recalled an early-career moment at Wrigley Field where he realized, "this is my home. I belong here." Votto concluded by saying, "I played this sport with every last ounce of my body, heart, and mind. Thank you for everything."