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“Joey Votto Announces Retirement: A Heartfelt Farewell to a Baseball Legend”

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⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁤ Joey Votto announces his retirement from baseball
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⁤ ⁣ ‍ “,”providerName”:”Instagram”,”providerUrl”:” had previously‌ said an emotional farewell to Cincinnati during his ‌last home game on‍ September 24 at Great American‌ Ball Park.⁤ In what turned out to be ‍his ‍final Major League‌ appearance ⁢on October 1 in St. Louis, Votto was ejected following his ‍first at-bat after disputing the ‌home plate umpire’s call on balls⁢ and strikes.nnIn his farewell message posted Wednesday, Votto expressed gratitude to ⁢his parents, Wendy and Joe, ⁣as well as⁢ his brother, Tyler. He extended thanks to the community of Etobicoke, Ontario, ⁤where he grew up and honed his skills during his amateur baseball career before being drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 2002 MLB Draft. Votto’s ‍gratitude list continued with numerous teammates and managers he has played alongside⁢ throughout the ‌years, mentioning many inside jokes that only they would understand.nn“Toronto + ​Canada, I wanted to perform for you. Sigh, I gave my all to play for my‍ people. I just can’t compete at‍ that level⁤ anymore,”⁤ Votto shared. “Thank you for all your support during my endeavor.””,”type”:”text”},{“__typename”:”Video”,”contentDate”:”2023-09-28T19:53:38.521Z”,”preferredPlaybackScenarioURL({“preferredPlaybacks”:”mp4AvcPlayback”})”:” a highlight reel featuring some of the most memorable moments from Joey Votto’s 17-year baseball career, showcasing his bond with the ‍Cincinnati Reds’⁢ fan base”,”displayAsVideoGif”:false,”duration”:”00:03:07″,”slug”:”joey-votto-s-illustrious-career”,”tags”:[{“__typename”:”TeamTag”,”slug”:”teamid-113″,”title”:”Cincinnati Reds”,”team”:{“__ref”:”Team:113″},”type”:”team”},{“__typename”:”PersonTag”,”slug”:”playerid-458015″,”title”:”Joey Votto”,”person”:{“__ref”:”Person:458015″},”type”:”player”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”tribute”,”title”:”tribute”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”highlight”,”title”:”highlight”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”classic”,”title”:”classic”,”type”:”taxonomy”}],”thumbnail”:{“__typename”:”Thumbnail”,”templateUrl”:” Votto’s illustrious career”,”relativeSiteUrl”:”/video/joey-votto-s-illustrious-career”},{“__typename”:”Markdown”,”content”:”After playing 15 games in Triple-A this season, where Votto hit .143 with⁢ a ‍.489‍ OPS, he found himself finally healthy enough to compete. The Blue Jays had‌ hoped to bring him on ⁤board during the season to‍ aid in a ⁤postseason push; however, as Toronto’s chances of making the postseason ​dwindled, they shifted focus to a⁢ younger ‌roster looking toward the future, leaving the‍ original plan incompatible.nn“Cincinnati, I’ve only played for you,” Votto’s message continues. “I cherish you.nn“Lastly, to all the MLB fans. Your cheers⁢ gave me energy, and I appreciated the boos, the banter, and the times I faced challenges in opponent cities or was brought back down to earth on stage. I will forever remember my first visit to Wrigley Field, where the‌ crowd arose in applause amid‍ my struggle. Standing⁢ at the plate, I ​smiled and thought, this is‌ where I belong. This is my home. I truly lived as myself in⁣ this sport. I⁢ played with every ounce of my body, heart, and mind. Thank you​ for everything.””,”type”:”text”}],”relativeSiteUrl”:”/news/joey-votto-retires-from-baseball”,”contentType”:”news”,”subHeadline”:null,”summary”:”TORONTO — Just moments before the ⁤first pitch between ⁢the only team he has ever‌ played for and the team he idolized growing up, Joey Votto declared his retirement‍ from baseball.nVotto has devoted the past ​six months attempting to return to the major leagues one last time with the”,”tagline({“format“`html

Votto Retires from Baseball

After an illustrious career, Joey⁢ Votto announces his ⁣retirement ‌from Major League Baseball. Known for his‌ exceptional skills and determination ⁢on the field, Votto has left an undeniable mark on the game.

During his time with the Cincinnati⁤ Reds, ‍Votto became a beloved figure, not just for his ⁤performance but also for his leadership and sportsmanship. His impact transcended statistics, as he inspired​ countless young athletes.

The decision to retire⁣ comes after a season filled with challenges. Despite facing obstacles, Votto remained committed to the sport that he loves. His passion for baseball was evident in every ​game he played and every interaction he had with fans.

Votto’s legacy will undoubtedly ‌be remembered. He finishes his career with impressive numbers and accolades that highlight his talent and hard work. ⁢As the Reds and their fans‌ celebrate his contributions, they also look forward to carrying his legacy into the future.

As Votto hangs up his cleats, the baseball community wishes him the ​best in his next chapter. ⁤His dedication to the game ‍and his positive attitude will be missed both on⁣ and off the field.

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TORONTO — Just before the game’s first pitch, Joey⁤ Votto ‌declared his retirement from⁣ baseball, facing off against the only ‌team he’s ever ⁢played for and the⁤ one he rooted for as a child.

Over the past six months, Votto has aimed to return to​ Major League Baseball, trying out for the Blue Jays after signing a Minor League contract in the spring. Unfortunately, an ankle injury sidelined him for half the season.

This week, while the ​Blue Jays faced the‌ Reds—his team for 17 remarkable seasons—he did not receive a call-up from Triple-A Buffalo.

“That’s it. I’m done. I am officially retired from baseball,” Votto stated in ​an ⁤eight-second video posted from a​ parking lot outside Buffalo’s Sahlen Field.

Approaching his 41st birthday in three weeks, Votto stands as⁣ one of the premier hitters of his era and a legend in Canadian baseball, boasting a⁢ strong case for the Baseball​ Hall of Fame. During his tenure with the Reds⁣ from 2007 to 2023, he ⁣posted a batting average of .294, hit 356 home runs, and achieved a ⁤.920 OPS across 2,056 games. He garnered six All-Star selections and won the NL MVP Award in 2010. Notably, Votto was a master at getting on base, leading⁤ Major League Baseball in walks three times and achieving nine ⁢seasons with ⁢an on-base percentage ⁤above .400.

However, ⁣the last two years with the Reds posed some challenges for ​Votto. ‍Between 2022 and 2023, he hit .204 with a .712 OPS ⁤and 25 ‌home runs in just‍ 156 games. He underwent left shoulder surgery in August 2022‍ to fix a torn​ rotator cuff and biceps, which kept him on the sidelines ‍for ten months.

Votto’s 10-year, $

The $225 million‍ contract extension Votto signed with Cincinnati in 2012 concluded at the end of last⁢ season.⁣ In November, the⁢ Reds opted to decline his $20⁢ million club ‍option, resulting⁣ in his status as a free agent for the very first time.

During his last home game on September ⁤24 at Great American Ball Park, Votto shared an emotional farewell with the Cincinnati⁢ fans. Subsequently, on October 1, in ‌what turned out to be his final Major ⁢League appearance in St. Louis, he was ejected after his first at-bat due to a⁤ dispute with the home plate umpire regarding ⁤balls and strikes.

In ⁢his ‌farewell post on Wednesday, Votto expressed gratitude to his parents, Wendy and Joe, and his‍ brother, Tyler. He also acknowledged the community ⁤of Etobicoke, Ontario, where he spent his youth⁢ and played much of his amateur baseball before being drafted by the Reds in the second round of the ⁤2002 MLB Draft. His list of thanks extended ⁣to the numerous teammates and ⁤managers he has spent time with in the dugout over the years, ⁣filled ‌with countless inside jokes only they share.

“Toronto + Canada,⁢ my wish was to play for you. Sigh,‌ I ​gave it my all to⁤ represent my‍ people. I⁤ just don’t have it anymore,” Votto stated.⁣ “Thank you for all your ⁢support during my journey.”

After finally recovering enough to ⁢play this season, Votto‍ appeared in 15​ games in Triple-A, posting a batting average of⁢ .143⁢ and an OPS of .489. Both he and the Blue Jays had envisioned a scenario in which he would join their roster during ‌the season and aid in a​ postseason push, but‌ as Toronto slipped from playoff⁢ contention and shifted towards a younger roster focused on the long term, that plan fell apart.

“Cincinnati, ‌you are the only‍ team I have ever played​ for,” ‌Votto’s message continued. “I love you.”

“to the MLB fans: your cheers have inspired me,‌ and I cherished the boos, the banter, and the moments when I both succeeded and fell ⁢short. I’ll always remember ⁤my first game at Wrigley Field, when the crowd erupted‌ in cheers for my mistakes. I​ stood there at the plate, smiling, thinking, this is where I‍ belong. I‍ was able to be myself in this sport and give my all. I‍ poured every ounce⁣ of my body, heart, ‌and mind into this game. Thank you for everything.”

Read more:  "Starling Marte Returns to Mets Lineup After Injury, Boosting Team's Outfield Depth"

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Joey ⁢Votto Announces Retirement: A Heartfelt Farewell to a Baseball Legend

Overview of ⁤Joey Votto’s Career

Joey Votto, a name synonymous with ‍excellence in Major League Baseball (MLB), has officially announced his retirement, marking the end of an illustrious career that ⁣has spanned nearly two decades. Votto, a first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, is not only celebrated for his impressive⁢ statistics but‌ also for his profound‌ impact on the game and the community.

Votto’s Early Years and Rise to Stardom

Born on September 10, 1983, in Toronto, Canada, Joey Votto was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds ⁣in the second round of the 2002 MLB Draft. His dedication to the sport and relentless work ethic quickly propelled him through ‍the minor ‌leagues. Votto made his MLB ‍debut⁤ in 2007 and soon became​ a cornerstone of the‍ Reds’ lineup.

Key Milestones in‍ Votto’s Career

  • 2008: Votto earns the National League Rookie of ⁤the⁣ Year⁤ award.
  • 2010: Wins the National League MVP after leading the‌ league⁣ in⁤ on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and‌ runs scored.
  • 2015: Selected to his ⁢fifth All-Star game and wins ⁣the Gold Glove Award.
  • 2020: ⁣ Achieves 2,000 career hits, ⁢solidifying his place as one of the game’s greats.

Votto’s Impact on the Game

Joey ​Votto’s approach to hitting ‌and on-field strategy has redefined the way modern baseball ​is played. Here are a few key aspects of his impact:

Plate Discipline

Votto is renowned for his exceptional plate discipline, often leading the league in‌ walks. His ability to ⁢analyze pitchers and select the right pitches has influenced countless players. In‍ an‌ era⁢ where home runs are often prioritized, Votto’s commitment to on-base percentage has set him apart.

Community Engagement

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Votto⁣ has been an active participant in community service. His philanthropic efforts have included:

  • Supporting local ⁣charities and youth programs in ‍Cincinnati.
  • Engaging ⁢in ‍initiatives that promote baseball among underprivileged youth.
  • Participating in‍ various fundraising events for health and education causes.

A Heartfelt Farewell

In a recent press conference, Votto addressed fans and the media, expressing his‌ gratitude⁤ for the journey he has shared with them. His emotional farewell resonated with⁣ many, as he reflected on the memories made and lessons learned throughout his ‍career.

Quotes from Joey Votto

“I am incredibly grateful for the love and support I have received throughout my career. Cincinnati will always be home to me, and I will cherish every moment spent in this beautiful game.”

Votto’s Legacy ⁣in Numbers

Statistic Career⁣ Total
Batting Average .297
Home Runs 342
RBIs 1,100+
Walks 1,200+

Fan Reactions and Tributes

Following Votto’s retirement announcement, fans and fellow players flooded social⁣ media with tributes. Here are some notable reactions:

Social Media Highlights

  • Reds Organization: “Thank⁣ you, Joey, for your dedication and passion. You will forever be a part of Reds history!”
  • Fellow Players: “Congrats on an incredible career, Joey! Your impact on the ⁤game ⁤will last forever.” – Mike Trout
  • Fans: “#ThankYouJoey trended on Twitter as fans shared their favorite ‍moments, ⁣highlights, and memories of Votto’s career.

What’s Next for Joey Votto?

As Joey Votto steps away from professional⁢ baseball, many are‌ curious about his future plans. Here are a few possibilities:

  • Coaching Opportunities: With his vast knowledge of the game, Votto may consider coaching young players, sharing⁤ his insights ​on hitting and​ strategy.
  • Broadcasting: Votto has already ‍shown interest in sports ‍commentary, potentially joining a ⁤network to provide analysis on MLB games.
  • Philanthropy: ⁣ Continuing his charitable work, Votto⁤ may⁣ focus on initiatives that support youth and sports development.

Lessons⁣ Learned from Joey Votto’s Career

Joey Votto’s career offers invaluable lessons for aspiring baseball players and fans alike:

Work Ethic and Dedication

Votto’s journey emphasizes ⁤the importance of hard work ⁢and perseverance. His consistent training ‌and dedication to improving his skills have been a cornerstone of his success.

Embracing Challenges

Throughout his career, Votto faced numerous challenges, including injuries and changing team dynamics. His resilience serves as an inspiring reminder‍ to embrace adversity and keep pushing forward.

Community Matters

Votto’s commitment to giving back to‍ the community highlights the significance of using one’s platform for positive change. Inspiring the next generation is as important as any⁣ on-field achievement.

Joey Votto’s Final Thoughts

As Votto reflects on his career, his focus remains on gratitude. Not only has he achieved personal milestones, but he has also ⁣inspired countless individuals both on and off the field. His legacy will undoubtedly live on, not⁢ just through statistics but also through the hearts of fans and players who admired his dedication to the ‍game.

Joey Votto’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Cincinnati ​Reds and MLB, but his influence will resonate for years⁤ to come.

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