Joey Votto, veteran first baseman, accepted a non-roster invite from the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday, as reported by ESPN’s Buster Olney. The deal, worth $2 million with the potential for an extra $2 million in incentives, was highlighted by Keegan Matheson of MLB.com.
I am excited about the opportunity to work my way back to the Major Leagues. It’s even sweeter to attempt this while wearing the uniform of my hometown team, the Toronto Blue Jays. https://t.co/s7xEFLKe8V
— Joey Votto (@JoeyVotto) March 8, 2024
This move follows the Cincinnati Reds’ decision to decline Votto’s $20 million club option for the 2024 season, stating they couldn’t commit to his playing time needs. This effectively ended the possibility of Votto returning to the Reds at a reduced salary.
The #Reds today declined the 2024 club option on the contract of 1B Joey Votto. pic.twitter.com/ACika5Oum7
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) November 4, 2023
Votto himself expressed his intention to continue playing for “at least one more year” during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show in October, regardless of the Reds’ decision.
It was evident why Cincinnati chose to part ways with one of their greatest hitters in team history.
Votto’s performance in 2023 reflected typical outcomes for players hitting their 40s. Across 65 games, he posted a .202/.314/.433 slash line, tallying 14 home runs, 38 RBI, and a 99 OPS+.
His start to the 2023 season was delayed until mid-June due to recovery from offseason shoulder surgery. Upon his return, the former 2010 National League MVP showcased flashes of his old form, hitting three homers and driving in seven runs in his first four games back.
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Votto’s performance in 2023 mirrored the Reds’ mixed fortunes. Despite a promising start, Cincinnati fell short of the playoffs, finishing 82-80, just two games shy of a wild-card spot.
With Votto joining the Blue Jays, expectations remain realistic for the future Hall of Famer. Improved health could boost his numbers, although declining walk rates and increased strikeouts since 2021 present challenges.
This decline in on-base skills is common among aging sluggers like Votto. While his performance dipped in 2023, he maintained league-average hitting, a testament to his longevity.
Toronto’s move to sign Votto aligns with his Canadian roots, making him a logical fit to bolster their lineup behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Brandon Belt’s departure leaves a gap that Votto aims to fill, adding offensive firepower for the Blue Jays in the upcoming season.
Beyond individual performance, Votto’s return to Toronto symbolizes a celebration of Canadian baseball, resonating with fans eager to see their native son don the Blue Jays jersey once again.