Cincinnati Reds Open to Bringing Back Legend in Non-Playing Capacity

Joey Votto was let go by the Cincinnati Reds at the beginning of the offseason, but they are free to bring him back in a non-playing role once his playing days are finished. The Cincinnati Reds picked up first baseman Joey Votto for $20 million at the beginning of the offseason. Afterwards, they declared their desire to not bring Votto back as a player in 2024; but, general manager Nick Krall expressed his willingness to have Votto return at some point in a non-playing capacity.

The following is from MLBTradeRumors, which includes a Cincinnati Enquirer link that requires a subscription:

The Blue Jays and Angels have shown interest in the veteran this offseason, although he is still single. Whether or not he secures a new playing engagement, it appears he will have work chances in the future. The Cincinnati Enquirer’s Gordon Wittenmyer and Charlie Goldsmith are informed by Krall that the team would be happy to have Votto return for a post-playing position.

Krall remarked, “I’ve left the door open for that.” When Joey’s playing days are gone, I would really like to see him stay with the organization. He is a Hall of Famer for the Cincinnati Reds. Within the company, he enjoys great respect, and we all adore him. The report suggests that the precise description of the position will probably be decided upon in the future and mentions roles like special assistant, coach, mentor, and so on.

That the Reds would want him back in the future makes sense. He’s a longtime Red (at least till now) and well-liked in the clubhouse. He would certainly have a lot to offer the players and the organization.

But once more, all of this will happen once his playing career is over. Though it’s unclear if he’ll find work in the off-season, he has expressed interest in the role.

Votto is one of the more accomplished players in the past 20 years, with a lifetime batting average of.294. He has 356 career home runs and a lifetime on-base percentage of.409. Along with his flawless resume, the slugger has won an MVP award, a Gold Glove, and six All-Star selections.

In seven different seasons, he has been the league leader in on-base percentage. He is a potential Hall of Famer who played with the Reds for 17 years.

Despite his injuries, he managed to hit.202 last season. Sadly, this only allowed him to amass 208 at-bats.