On Friday, March 7th, 2024, the Toronto Blue Jays confirmed their acquisition of Joey Votto. Although there were prior discussions about Votto joining the Jays, the actual signing came as a surprise. It appeared that the Blue Jays had completed their roster signings, but Votto’s availability and desire to play for the team led to this unexpected move.
In November, the Cincinnati Reds opted out of a $20 million option on Votto’s 10-year, $225 million contract, which he signed in 2012. Remarkably, Votto has remained loyal to the Reds throughout his career and has never played for another team.
Votto discussed how it seemed like he had options for major league deals initially. However, on Friday, he opted for a one-year minor league contract worth $2 million with the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite being 40 years old, Votto, a seasoned first baseman, posted stats of a .202 batting average, 14 home runs, 42 hits, and 38 RBIs with the Reds in the previous season. Since his debut in 2007, Votto has had a remarkable career, winning the National League Most Valuable Player award in 2010 and compiling a Hall of Fame-worthy resume over his 17 seasons with the Reds.
Joey Votto’s Addition Is Positive For The Blue Jays
Canadian Baseball Icon Joey Votto
Just when it seemed the Blue Jays had concluded their signings, they pleasantly surprised us by adding Joey Votto to their roster, eliciting excitement from fans given his Toronto roots. Votto, born in Toronto, brings anticipation as he joins the Blue Jays.
Among Votto’s standout seasons was his .326 batting average, second only to his remarkable .337 in 2012 when he also hit 29 home runs, a performance only surpassed by his 2010 MVP season. Over his 17 seasons with the Reds, Votto showcased impressive statistics, including a .294 batting average, 2135 hits, 356 home runs, 1144 RBIs, and 1171 runs scored.
Votto’s leadership on the field, evident in his contributions in batting average, hits, total bases, and RBIs, sets him apart from his teammates. Despite being 40 years old, acquiring whatever Votto has left to offer holds promise for the Blue Jays.
Widely regarded as one of the best first basemen in Reds history, Votto’s addition to the Blue Jays is a point of pride for fans. Growing up in Toronto and attending games at the Rogers Centre, Votto’s dream of donning the same uniform as his childhood idols, like Joe Carter, is now realized.
The Blue Jays’ decision to sign Votto came after weeks of his unsigned status during Spring Training, during which he voiced his desire for a chance on social media. Fans are satisfied with the Blue Jays taking a chance on him. With competition for a left-handed bench role against players like Daniel Vogelbach and prospect Spencer Horwitz, Votto’s inclusion seems essential given his status as a Canadian baseball icon. The prospect of witnessing Votto, a celebrated figure, in a Blue Jays uniform excites both fans and the MLB community alike.