Most people thought we had seen the last of Cincinnati Reds legend Joey Votto at the end of the 2023 season.
After all, his contract was up and he is now 40 years old.
The logical thing was for him to end his career as a Red, applauded by the whole stadium.
But the heart wants what the heart wants: he is eager to keep playing baseball professionally, at least for one more season.
Perhaps if teams weren’t showing interest in signing him, he would have chosen to step away from the game that gave him so much.
However, there are multiple teams looking to sign him, according to recent reports.
“Veteran free-agent first baseman Joey Votto, the beloved former Cincinnati Reds’ six-time All-Star and MVP, has three teams now expressing interest in him,” MLB insider Bob Nightengale tweeted.
Veteran free-agent first baseman Joey Votto, the beloved former Cincinnati Reds’ six-time All-Star and MVP, has three teams now expressing interest in him.
Earlier in the offseason, it was reported that the Toronto Blue Jays were interested in Votto, and one has to think the Reds have a certain degree of interest, too, now that he can be brought in on a much lower salary.
He has been one of the most intelligent hitters of his generation, with a career .920 OPS, 356 home runs, an MVP award in 2010, six All-Star berths, and one Gold Glove.
Votto already has a solid case to be considered for the Hall of Fame once his career is over, but from now, he still feels he can help a team.
With a decent .747 OPS in 2023, he probably can.