43. Joey Votto – Cincinnati Reds
One would imagine that the best player on the team that one broadcasts would be a favorite of the team’s announcers. That is not the case with Joey Votto.
It is difficult to understand why. Votto has been everything the Reds have asked for, and more. A former MVP, and a Gold Glove caliber first baseman, Votto has been an on base machine throughout his career. Last season was no different, when he shook off a slow start to post a stellar .324/.434/.560 batting line. He had 29 homers and 34 doubles as the Reds only real weapon on offense.
While Votto may not be a Gold Glove first baseman any longer, he was still solid around the bag. He finished third in the National League with 107 assists and 124 double plays, while posting approximately league average numbers in range factor. Votto did, however, cost the Reds two runs in the field.
Add in his longevity with the team, and Votto is easily the face of the Reds. Yet, that does not matter to Marty Brennaman, who detests the Reds star. The reason? Votto makes a ridiculous amount of money, which he feels is hamstringing the team. You know, instead of Homer Bailey, Devin Mesoraco, or any lack of being able to construct a team.
Marty Brennaman may not be willing to acknowledge it, but Joey Votto is one of the best players in the MLB. The Reds should be grateful they extended him.