JUST IN: Toronto Blue Jays high rated profile confirm retirement just now

For those who might not know, MLB icon Joey Votto recently announced his retirement, marking a less-than-stellar end to his career following his winter signing with the Toronto Blue Jays. In reality, the Blue Jays didn’t offer Votto any significant opportunities after bringing him on with a minor league contract. He was never called up to the majors, which makes you wonder why Ross Atkins decided to sign him in the first place.

I’ve heard Ross Atkins made the drive to Buffalo today to have a convo with Votto, I believe with the intention of telling him a call-up was highly unlikely, leading to a parking lot IG post. https://t.co/kAAlpi2upI

— Scott Mitchell (@ScottyMitchTSN) August 22, 2024

At least he made the effort to join the Blue Jays, even though it was understandable not to promote Votto to the main roster in September. His minor league performance this season, with a slash line of .165/.298/.271, and a .204 average between 2022 and 2023, suggested that the retirement call might have come sooner. For Atkins, signing Votto was a low-risk move, aiming to see if he could still contribute in any way.

Ultimately, Votto never played a game for Toronto and struggled to maintain his previous production in recent years. The move was particularly disheartening for Cincinnati fans, as Votto had been a staple since his debut in 2007 and was a runner-up for Rookie of the Year in 2008.

Despite this, Votto’s career was impressive, with a lifetime slash line of .294/.409/.511 and 356 home runs. He earned six All-Star selections and is a beloved figure in Cincinnati. He ranks fourth in Reds’ WAR leaders behind Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, and Barry Larkin, according to Baseball Reference.

In the end, Atkins might bear some responsibility for Votto’s minor league stint, and knowing he likely wouldn’t be called up, Votto decided it was time to retire rather than continue playing in the minors. Given his performance in the Blue Jays’ system, it’s understandable. Votto retired on his own terms, preserving his dignity.