Canadian baseball star Joey Votto retires after an impressive 17-season career in Major League Baseball. The 40-year-old first baseman made the announcement on Instagram, stating, “That’s it. I’m done. I am officially retiring from baseball.”

Votto, who earned six All-Star selections, a Gold Glove, and the 2010 National League MVP award, spent his entire MLB career with the Cincinnati Reds. Last spring, the Toronto native signed a minor-league contract with the Blue Jays. However, he never played a major-league game for his hometown team.

Votto’s stint with the Blue Jays was brief. He homered off Zack Wheeler in his only spring training at-bat, but an injury sidelined him for three months. Despite trying to make a comeback with Triple-A Buffalo, he finished the season with a .143 batting average in 15 games.

In his retirement post, Votto expressed his desire to play for Toronto, saying, “I wanted to play in front of you… I tried with all my heart.” He also thanked his family, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his career.

Drafted in 2002 by the Reds, Votto hit .294 with 356 home runs and 1,444 RBIs in 2,056 games. He posted an impressive career on-base plus slugging percentage of .920, and his best season saw him hit 37 home runs during his MVP year. Votto represented Canada at the World Baseball Classic in 2009 and 2013, and he was twice named Canadian athlete of the year.

Votto’s legacy could earn him a spot in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, potentially joining fellow Canadians Fergie Jenkins and Larry Walker. Eligible for induction in 2029, Votto’s career will be remembered for his consistency, resilience, and passion for the game.

SOURCE: TSN