Joey Votto made a grand return to the Cincinnati Reds’ lineup after a 10-month absence following surgery. The Reds extended their winning streak to nine games with a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Colorado Rockies at the Los Angeles Country Club.
Joey Votto, greeted with a standing ovation as he stepped up to the plate in the second inning, wasted no time making an impact. He homered on the first pitch he saw, launching a belt-high fastball into the right-field seats to give the Reds a 3-1 lead in the fifth inning. The crowd erupted as Votto circled the bases, and he emerged from the dugout for a curtain call wearing the team’s celebratory Viking helmet and cape, symbols of their successful season.
The 39-year-old first baseman’s return marked a significant milestone for both himself and the Reds. Votto had undergone surgery on his left biceps and rotator cuff, and his absence had been keenly felt by the team. His home run against the Rockies was his first since August 2022, and it propelled him to 15 career home runs against Colorado, surpassing Ken Griffey Jr. for the second-most by a Reds player against the Rockies.
Votto’s contributions didn’t stop at the home run. In the sixth inning, he delivered a clutch, go-ahead two-run single to center field off Jake Bird, putting the Reds ahead 5-4. His presence on the field and in the lineup injected a renewed energy into the team and the crowd.
Cincinnati’s victory not only marked their ninth consecutive win, but it also propelled them to the top of the NL Central standings, overtaking the Milwaukee Brewers. This is the first time the Reds have held the division lead since early April. Manager David Bell praised the team’s energy and impressive performance during their winning streak, emphasizing that their recent success has been building up gradually.
For Votto, this comeback signifies more than just his personal achievements. He expressed his admiration for the team’s camaraderie and the way they play, describing it as a different energy he has experienced in years, perhaps even in his entire career. The standing ovation from the crowd and the reciprocity of support meant a great deal to him, reinforcing the bond between him and the fans.
As the Reds continue their remarkable winning streak and Votto’s triumphant return unfolds, the team’s aspirations for the playoffs are gaining momentum. Votto’s presence and impact on the field are expected to make them even stronger contenders. With a renewed sense of purpose and a deep desire to contribute to the team’s success, Votto is determined to make a lasting impact on the Reds’ journey towards the postseason.
In conclusion, Joey Votto’s return to the Cincinnati Reds lineup after a 10-month absence has been nothing short of spectacular. His home run and go-ahead single propelled the team to their ninth straight victory and secured their position atop the NL Central standings. With Votto back in the mix, the Reds are embracing a new energy and are poised to make a significant impact in their pursuit of postseason success. The fans’ overwhelming support and Votto’s unwavering commitment to the team serve as a testament to the exciting journey that lies ahead for the Cincinnati Reds.