Joey Votto Becomes Free Agent as Cincinnati Reds Decline his $20 Million Option

After over two decades of service and despite a $7 million buyout, 40-year-old first baseman Joey Votto expresses his deep connection to the Cincinnati Reds and his desire to leave the sport on his own terms, remaining hopeful for opportunities in the future.

Joey Votto, the 40-year-old first baseman of the Cincinnati Reds, has become a free agent after his $20 million club option was declined by the Reds. Despite this, he received a $7 million buyout.
Having played for the Reds for the entirety of his 21-year professional baseball career, Votto expressed his plethora of feelings over the decision, stating his time with the Reds has been 'more than I ever could have imagined.'
Votto is the Reds' iconic player of his generation, holding numerous records with the club. He's ranked second all-time in franchise history in home runs, doubles, and OPS, and first in walks. Despite his impressive record, his performance declined in the recent two seasons.
His low performance in the past two seasons and major shoulder surgery in 2022 to repair a torn rotator cuff and biceps might make his opportunities on the open market challenging. Regardless, Votto declared his intention to continue playing, expressing his desire to leave the sport on his terms.
Votto, although now a free agent, still maintains a deep connection with the Cincinnati Reds and the city of Cincinnati. He stated, 'If the Reds have that championship experience and share that with the city, I’ll be happy as a Red and someone who lived in the Cincinnati community.' He remained open to possibly rejoining the team.