Joey Votto Clarifies Future Plans With Reds

The 2022 MLB season has been one to forget for not only Cincinnati Reds fans, but for first baseman Joey Votto as well. Votto put together the worst offensive season of his career this summer and will now undergo surgery to fix a torn rotator cuff and bicep. His plan for 2023 is as clear as day, though.

“I think the pride part of me wants to tell a story. It’s hard to tell a story if you confuse the story, especially if the ending is confusing. I want to finish my career well.” Joey Votto’s sights are set on a strong 2023 season. https://t.co/RXQdMY80Un
— Bobby Nightengale (@nightengalejr) August 29, 2022

Cincinnati Reds News

Votto has every intention of playing through the final guaranteed year of his 10-year, $225 million contract. His six-month recovery timeline may put him back on the field in time for spring training and he is motivated to prove his doubters wrong. He wants to be part of a championship in Cincinnati.

“Of course, I want to start my career and finish my career in the same uniform. That’s a priority for me."
- Joey Votto on his Reds future

It's not going to be as easy as showing up and being named to the starting lineup for the 38-year-old. The .205 batting average and .318 on-base percentage he finished with in 2022 were both over 100 points below his career average. Injuries and struggles against right-handed pitching were to blame.

There's no denying Votto's confidence that he can still play at a high level. He told reporters that he is "addicted to performing and that has never changed." The Reds will have to determine if his 2022 form is here to stay or if he could return to a 2021 form that included 36 home runs and 99 RBI.

“All I’ve ever wanted to do was play every inning of every game possible.”
- Joey Votto on his injury recovery

The next step for the six-time All-Star is attacking the rehab process in hope of being ready for Opening Day.

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