Former Reds First Baseman Votto Ends Comeback Bid, Announces Retirement

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto stands on the field during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Cincinnati on Sept. 24, 2023. Aaron Doster/AP Photo

Joey Votto, a six-time National League All-Star and former most valuable player during his 17 major-league seasons as a first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, announced his retirement on Wednesday via Instagram.

“I was myself in this sport,” Votto wrote in part of his Instagram post. “I was able to be my best self. I played this sport with every last ounce of my body, heart, and mind.”