Joey Votto stepping onto the field in a Blue Jays uniform for the first time was a sight to behold. Especially on a sunny Sunday during spring training. He didn’t just show up; he made an entrance, homering on the first pitch he saw.
Honestly, it’s a bit surreal seeing him in blue. Yet, that swing? Unmistakably Votto. Drafted straight out of high school by the Reds in 2002, he’s been a powerhouse. Over 17 seasons, he’s boasted a .294/.409/.511 slash line. Not to mention his 2,135 hits, 459 doubles, and 356 home runs. After his contract with the Reds ended, he found himself in a bit of limbo.
Votto’s offseason was, well, longer than expected. He openly shared his eagerness to continue playing, holding onto hope for a call, even as late as March 5th.
And then, the Blue Jays stepped in. It felt like destiny, didn’t it? Born and raised in Toronto, Votto once sported a Blue Jays bib as a baby. Talk about full circle.
The plan for Votto is a tad unconventional. He’s starting in the minors to shake off the rust from his late start. But, if he shows he’s still got it, there’s chatter about him joining the big league lineup. Especially with Justin Turner potentially taking third base, leaving room for Votto to step in.
Seeing Votto hit a homer for the team he grew up cheering for? Even if it was just a spring training game, it was nothing short of magical.
