Hey baseball fans, are you curious about the contract details of one of the most consistent hitters in MLB history? Look no further! Joey Votto, the beloved first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, has been a cornerstone of the team for over a decade. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of Joey Votto’s contract, including its duration, value, and any incentives or bonuses. So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore the financial details behind one of the most respected players in the game.
Joey Votto’s current contract with the Reds is a 10-year, $225 million deal that he signed in 2012. This contract made him one of the highest-paid players in baseball at the time. The contract includes a full no-trade clause, giving Votto complete control over his baseball future. Additionally, Votto’s contract includes a $7 million signing bonus and various incentives based on performance.
Votto’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2023 season. However, there have been rumors and speculations surrounding a possible contract extension. Votto has expressed his desire to remain with the Reds, and the team has been open to the possibility of extending his contract. With Votto’s consistent performance and leadership on and off the field, it’s likely that the two sides will come to an agreement that will keep the fan-favorite in Cincinnati for years to come.
Joey Votto’s Contract History
Early Years (2007-2012)
Rookie Contract: Joey Votto’s professional baseball journey commenced with a rookie contract that spanned the 2007 season. The accord stipulated an annual salary of $1.5 million, a substantial sum for an unproven player yet to establish himself in the Major Leagues. However, Votto quickly defied expectations, showcasing exceptional skills at the plate and emerging as a cornerstone of the Cincinnati Reds organization.
Arbitration: Following the expiration of his rookie contract, Votto entered salary arbitration with the Reds. This process involves an independent arbitrator determining a player’s salary based on various factors, including performance, statistics, and comparable contracts. In Votto’s case, the arbitrator awarded him a salary of $4.25 million for the 2012 season. This represented a significant increase from his rookie salary and reflected his growing stature within the league.
Votto’s early contract history played a crucial role in setting the foundation for his subsequent financial success. The rookie contract provided a stable income while allowing him to prove his worth on the field. The arbitration process ensured that he was fairly compensated for his contributions, paving the way for future contract negotiations.
10-Year, $225 Million Contract (2013)
Terms of the Contract
Joey Votto’s 10-year, $225 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds, signed in 2013, is one of the most lucrative deals in Major League Baseball history. The contract includes the following key terms:
Signing Bonus and Salary
Votto received a $10 million signing bonus at the time of the contract signing. His annual salary over the 10-year term is structured as follows:
- $22 million in 2014
- $20 million in 2015
- $22 million in 2016
- $22 million in 2017
- $24 million in 2018
- $24 million in 2019
- $24 million in 2020
- $24 million in 2021
- $24 million in 2022
- $24 million in 2023
This equates to an average annual salary of $22.5 million, which was among the highest in MLB at the time of the signing.
No-Trade Clause
Votto’s contract includes a full no-trade clause, meaning that the Reds cannot trade him to another team without his consent. This gives Votto significant control over his career and ensures that he will remain with the Reds throughout the duration of the contract.
Other Provisions
In addition to the salary and no-trade clause, the contract includes several other provisions, such as:
- A $4 million bonus for winning the Most Valuable Player Award
- A $2 million bonus for winning the World Series
- A $1 million bonus for being named an All-Star
These bonuses provide Votto with additional financial incentives to perform at a high level and contribute to the Reds’ success.
Votto’s contract was a significant investment by the Reds, but it has proved to be a wise one. He has continued to perform at an elite level, winning the National League MVP Award in 2010 and finishing in the top 10 in the MVP voting in several other seasons. He has also helped lead the Reds to the playoffs on four occasions and played a key role in the team’s National League Central division title in 2012.
Contract Extensions (2018, 2020)
2018 Extension
In February 2018, Votto agreed to a two-year, $43 million contract extension with the Reds. The deal included a club option for the 2021 season worth $25 million. This extension bought out the final two years of Votto’s previous contract and added two additional seasons to his tenure in Cincinnati.
The 2018 extension was a significant investment by the Reds in Votto, who was coming off a disappointing 2017 season in which he missed significant time due to injury. However, Votto had a bounce-back year in 2018, hitting .284 with 26 home runs and 100 RBIs. He also earned his sixth All-Star selection and finished 10th in MVP voting.
The 2018 extension was a gamble for the Reds, as Votto was entering his mid-30s and had a history of injuries. However, Votto’s performance in 2018 showed that he could still be a productive player at a high level. The extension gave the Reds some financial flexibility, as they could now spread out Votto’s salary over a longer period of time. It also gave Votto some security, as he knew that he would be in Cincinnati for at least the next four seasons.
The 2018 extension has been a success for both Votto and the Reds. Votto has continued to be a productive player, and the Reds have made the playoffs in each of the two seasons since signing him to the extension. Votto’s leadership and presence in the clubhouse have also been invaluable to the Reds.
2020 Extension
In December 2020, Votto agreed to a one-year, $25 million contract extension with the Reds. This extension covered the 2021 season, which was the final year of his previous contract. The extension also included a mutual option for the 2022 season worth $25 million.
The 2020 extension was a short-term deal that gave both Votto and the Reds some flexibility. Votto could test the free agent market after the 2021 season, while the Reds could decide whether or not they wanted to keep him beyond the 2022 season.
Votto had a solid season in 2021, hitting .294 with 22 home runs and 90 RBIs. He also earned his seventh All-Star selection. The Reds, however, struggled in 2021 and finished with a losing record. As a result, the Reds declined their option for the 2022 season, making Votto a free agent.
The 2020 extension was a one-year stopgap for both Votto and the Reds. Votto had a good season in 2021, but the Reds decided to move on in a different direction. Votto is now a free agent and will likely sign with a new team for the 2023 season.
2020 Extension
In December 2019, Joey Votto and the Cincinnati Reds agreed to a one-year, $25 million contract extension, ensuring that he would remain with the team through the 2020 season. This extension was particularly significant for both Votto and the Reds for several reasons:
Financial Impact
The $25 million extension represented a substantial financial commitment from the Reds, reflecting Votto’s value to the team both on and off the field. Votto had been a consistent performer throughout his career, and his presence in the Reds’ lineup and clubhouse was considered invaluable.
Team Stability
At the time of the extension, the Reds were in a period of transition, with a number of key players departing via free agency or trade. Votto’s extension provided the team with a sense of stability, ensuring that one of their most important players would remain a cornerstone of the team for at least another year.
Personal Significance
For Votto, the extension represented a commitment to the city of Cincinnati and the Reds organization. He had spent his entire career with the Reds, and he expressed his desire to finish his playing days in Cincinnati. The extension allowed him to continue his legacy with the team and continue to connect with the city’s passionate baseball fans.
Performance Implications
Votto’s performance during the 2020 season was largely unaffected by the extension. He continued to be a productive hitter, posting a .272 batting average with 11 home runs and 34 RBIs in the pandemic-shortened season. His presence in the lineup helped the Reds improve from their dismal 2019 record, finishing with a respectable 31-29 record.
Future Considerations
The 2020 extension served as a bridge between Votto’s previous contract and the long-term deal he signed in 2021. It allowed both the Reds and Votto to evaluate their respective situations before committing to a more substantial financial investment. Ultimately, the extension proved to be a beneficial arrangement for both parties, setting the stage for Votto’s continued success and the Reds’ future plans.
Votto’s Legacy and Future
Joey Votto’s exceptional career has established him as one of the most renowned players in contemporary baseball. Over the course of his tenure with the Cincinnati Reds, Votto has accumulated an array of accolades and etched his name into the annals of the sport.
Accomplishments and Awards
Among Votto’s most prestigious accomplishments is his 2010 National League MVP Award, which he earned after a remarkable season in which he led the league in on-base percentage (.424), slugging percentage (.578), and on-base plus slugging (1.002). He also captured the Silver Slugger Award in 2010 and 2017, recognizing his exceptional offensive prowess. Additionally, Votto has been selected as an All-Star six times, showcasing his consistent excellence at the highest level.
Leadership and Longevity in Cincinnati
Votto’s impact extends beyond his individual accomplishments. He has served as a cornerstone player and leader for the Cincinnati Reds, guiding the team through both highs and lows. His unwavering commitment to the franchise and his city has earned him the respect and admiration of fans and teammates alike. Votto’s unwavering work ethic and dedication have played a pivotal role in maintaining the Reds as a competitive force in the National League.
Projection for the Remaining Years of His Current Contract
With three years remaining on his current contract, Votto’s future with the Reds remains bright. Despite approaching the twilight of his career, he continues to perform at an elite level. In 2022, he posted a .314 batting average, .431 on-base percentage, and .550 slugging percentage. These numbers indicate that Votto still possesses the skills and abilities to make a significant contribution to the team.
Votto’s role on the Reds is expected to evolve in his final years under the current contract. While he may no longer be the team’s everyday first baseman, his exceptional bat-to-ball skills and leadership qualities will continue to be invaluable assets. He is likely to take on a mentorship role, guiding and supporting younger players while providing a steady presence in the clubhouse.
As Votto’s career draws to a close, he is poised to leave a lasting legacy in Cincinnati. His accomplishments on the field, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to the Reds will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of fans. When he eventually retires, Votto will undoubtedly be inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, further solidifying his place among the franchise’s greatest legends.
Career Outlook and Retirement
Joey Votto is nearing the end of his illustrious MLB career. After the 2023 season, he is widely expected to retire from professional baseball. Having spent his entire career with the Cincinnati Reds, Votto has established himself as one of the most respected and accomplished players in the league.
Retirement Timeline
Votto has hinted at retirement for several years, expressing his desire to spend more time with his family. The 2023 season will be his 15th in the majors, and at age 39, he believes it is an appropriate time to step away from the game.
Hall of Fame Potential
There is little doubt that Joey Votto will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame when he becomes eligible. His impressive statistics and accomplishments make him a virtual lock for Cooperstown. Votto is a seven-time All-Star, a former National League MVP, and a Gold Glove winner. He has also led the league in on-base percentage four times and slugging percentage twice.
Legacy and Impact
Joey Votto’s legacy will extend far beyond his playing career. He has been a role model and mentor to countless young players, both on and off the field. His professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to the game have earned him the respect of his peers, fans, and the entire baseball community.
Future Endeavors
While Votto’s future plans are not entirely clear, it is likely that he will remain involved in baseball in some capacity. He has expressed an interest in coaching or mentoring young players. Votto’s knowledge of the game and his ability to connect with others make him an ideal candidate for these roles.