Some former major leaguers take years to find a second career once their playing days are done. That will not be the case with Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto.
He has remained around the team despite being lost for the season due to rotator cuff surgery. Votto has been moonlighting as a broadcaster for the Reds, spending time in the booth as he has displayed a natural gift for being both entertaining and insightful.
Joey Votto is showing why his next career should be in the Cincinnati Reds booth
Votto continued his ability to connect with the fans on Wednesday. He spent the first few innings wandering around the ballpark while wearing a jersey of Hall of Famer, and current Reds’ broadcaster, Barry Larkin. Votto spent his time talking with fans, posing for pictures, and making jokes about his ‘dad bod.’
This is not his first foray into the broadcast booth. Votto had spent time on the Reds’ radio broadcasts last year when he was shelved with a thumb injury. Not only is this an experience that Votto enjoys, but it is also one that he appears to be perfectly suited for when his career comes to an end.
It is time to start thinking about those days. Votto struggled this season before he was lost for the rest of the year, posting a .205/.319/.370 batting line in his 376 plate appearances, hitting 11 homers and 18 doubles. As he will be 39 years old next season, and in the final guaranteed year of his contract, the end of his playing days is fast approaching.
This does not mean that he will leave the Reds. His natural charisma and knack in the booth can lead to a second career around the team, one that he could excel in as well. The Reds’ legend could become known just as much for his time as a broadcaster as he will be remembered for his exploits on the diamond.
Joey Votto has continued to show that he is a natural fit as a broadcaster. The Cincinnati Reds legend may have his second career lined up.