Joey Votto Calls It a Career After Nearly Two Decades with the Reds
On Wednesday, Joey Votto officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, concluding a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades. Votto, a cornerstone for the Cincinnati Reds, leaves behind a legacy marked by consistency, excellence, and impressive statistics that firmly place him among the game's elite.
A Career of Consistency and Excellence
Votto's career numbers speak for themselves: a batting line of .294/.409/.511, resulting in a stellar 144 OPS+. With 2,135 hits, including 459 doubles and 356 home runs, Votto provided the Reds with a reliable offensive presence year after year. His 1,144 runs batted in and 1,171 runs scored further underline his substantial contributions to the team's success.
Among his many accolades, Votto was named the National League MVP in 2010, a testament to his impact during his peak years. Votto also made six All-Star appearances, confirming his status as one of the top first basemen of his era.
Impressive Advanced Metrics
Votto's advanced metrics further solidify his standing as an elite player. Accumulating a 64.5 WAR (Wins Above Replacement) over his career, Votto showcased his all-around skills and value. His proficiency at getting on base was unparalleled, leading the league in on-base percentage seven times and in walks five times. Additionally, Votto topped the league in OPS twice and slugging percentage once, demonstrating his well-rounded offensive prowess.
Reflecting on his ability to deliver in crucial moments, Votto hit .321/.468/.574 with runners in scoring position and maintained a slash line of .314/.438/.562 in high-leverage situations. Even in the playoffs, where the pressure is at its highest, Votto managed a .244/.319/.244 batting line, including an impressive .389 with a .500 OBP in the 2012 NLDS.
Legacy and Hall of Fame Consideration
Throughout his career, Votto consistently ranked among the best in various offensive categories. He stands 42nd all-time in on-base percentage (.OBP), 53rd in OPS, and 34th in walks. Among first basemen, Votto ranks 12th in the JAWS (Jaffe WAR Score system), one spot behind Miguel Cabrera and ahead of legends such as Rafael Palmeiro, Willie McCovey, Todd Helton, and Eddie Murray. Significantly, he surpasses 20 Hall of Fame first basemen in JAWS, bolstering his credentials for Cooperstown.
The sentiment among baseball writers and analysts is overwhelmingly supportive of Votto's Hall of Fame case. As one writer puts it, "I'm a voter for the first time this year and I can very firmly say I'm going to be a Votto voter when the time comes." Such endorsements highlight the widespread recognition of Votto's excellence and lasting impact on the game.
Cincinnati's Beloved Star
For nearly two decades, Joey Votto was the face of the Cincinnati Reds, consistently delivering for a fanbase that came to rely on his steady performance and leadership. His retirement marks the end of an era for the Reds and Major League Baseball.
Votto's remarkable career, underscored by his impressive statistics and accolades, ensures that he will be remembered as one of the finest first basemen of his time. His potential induction into the Hall of Fame will serve as a fitting capstone to a career defined by excellence, perseverance, and a deep love for the game.