The Cincinnati Reds received some encouraging news regarding the injury to slugger Joey Votto, who went down due to shoulder discomfort earlier this week, as the team prepares for a playoff push to cap off a solid season in 2023.
With Votto shelved the Reds recalled outfielder Nick Senzel to take Votto’s spot while he recovers, according to MLB Trade Rumors. That same report added that Votto is expected to make a return in early September, hopefully missing just 10 days while the Reds continue to battle it out for a National League Wild Card Playoff spot.
“I can’t speak for that, for the future as far as my career,” said Votto, according to Cincinnati Enquirer’s Gordon Wittenmyer. “I’m just thinking about getting better so I can be strong and healthy on a consistent basis in a game that demands that you’re strong and healthy on a consistent basis.
“As far as thinking about career stuff, I’m just looking forward to getting back in the box and feeling great and performing well and helping the team move towards our collective goal.”
“I’ll say it doesn’t feel 100 percent,” Votto said, “and that time off will work towards improving range of motion and strength and feeling better.”
Votto said “of course” he believes he can return to play again this season and the Reds are certainly hoping the same.
Votto, who has played his entire career with the Reds, is considered to be the heart and soul of the Reds franchise as well as one of their most popular MLB athletes over the last few decades and his leadership will be critical as the Reds look to not only make it to the playoffs, but attempt to win their first playoff series since 1995.
With the rise of Elly De La Cruz, Spencer Steer, and Will Benson this season, the Reds look primed to be playoff contenders for many seasons to come.
Votto, 39, has batted .200 with 13 homeruns and 33 RBIs for the Reds this season.
