Reds’ fans could get their wish as Joey Votto continues to receive little interest

Joey Votto may yet do the thing he’s always expressed an interest in doing.

The first time around as a free agent, Joey Votto has not had the success he had hoped for. The former first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds is still without a team after his club option was turned down earlier in the winter.

Votto talked about the experience on the Dan Patrick Show late last week, with just over three weeks until Opening Day.Votto stated that he hasn’t received a “firm offer” yet this offseason, and the topic of retirement was also brought up.

This offseason, it seems like two distinct factions of Reds fans have arisen. The six-time All-Star’s detractors believe it’s time for him to hang up his cleats, while a group of hopeful Reds supporters would love to see Votto return to Cincinnati for one final run. Those of you in the latter group might get what you desire for.

Reds’ fans could get their wish as Joey Votto continues to receive little interest

Votto has struggled the last two seasons due to injuries, but it’s difficult to ignore the fact that he’s only hit.204/.317/.394 since 2022. Votto’s slash line is terrible, but he also strikes out more than 25% of the time he bats. We are discussing a player who took great satisfaction in stealing bases instead of being hit by pitches for many years.

Few teams reportedly expressed interest in Votto.There have been rumors that the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Angels are interested in signing the former NL MVP, but nothing has come of them.

Votto mentioned the slow market to Patrick during their talk, blaming it for his lack of action in the open market. Although it’s true that Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell are still unsigned, things aren’t quite like that. Despite receiving several proposals, none of them have come close to matching Snell and Montgomery’s alleged worth. Votto has gotten something.

Votto might be approaching the unpleasant truth that no player wants to hear: he might have been overlooked by the game. Votto lacks two qualities that are greatly sought after in today’s game: versatility as a defender and adeptness as a base stealer. Over the last two seasons, Votto’s on-base percentage has decreased by more than 50 points, and his first base defense is subpar.

The Reds are not interested in a reunion with Joey Votto

The Reds as a team have moved on.The Reds extended Jonathan India’s deal, turned down Votto’s club option, signed Jeimer Candelario in free agency, and supported the youth movement, all of which should pay off in 2024 and beyond.

Votto’s supporters may find this difficult to accept, but the market is making it apparent that he is nearing the end of his career. Votto will have accomplished his lifelong goal and what Reds supporters have been waiting for if he chooses to retire: he will have finished his career having solely played for the Cincinnati Reds.