Aug 11, 2022; Dyersville, Iowa, USA; Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto (19) talks with reporters before the game against the Chicago Cubs at Field of Dreams. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Joey Votto is one of baseball’s best ambassadors.
On the field, on the mic, and on TikTok, he’s an utterly wonderful, joyful being.
He’s also been in the majors for 16 seasons, and at 38 years old, he’s at the age when people start to wonder how much is left in the tank. His drop in power and comments about retirement had fans worrying that this would be his final season.
But while mic’d up during the second annual Field of Dreams game in heaven Dyersville, Iowa, Votto mentioned that he spoke to Ken Griffey Sr. about longevity. These comments will make his fans much happier:
“I was talking to Griffey Sr. before the game and I said, ‘I feel good,’ and he said, ‘You look good, keep going,’ and I said, ‘How long did you play til?’ and he said, ’41,’ and I said, ‘How’d you feel?’ He goes, ‘Well, I thought I could’ve played til I was 43.’ And I said, ‘You have any advice?’ He said, ‘Have fun.’
And I’m having a great time, I wanna keep playing.”
Votto has been with the Cincinnati Reds for his entire career and is under contract through 2023, with a club option for 2024. Griffey began his career in Cincy, and ultimately played 12 of his 19 years with the team over two stints. When Votto retires, he will almost certainly join Griffey’s son in the Baseball Hall of Fame. And, hopefully, he’ll join a broadcast booth or do something else to continue making this game as entertaining as he does.
But for now, it’s great to hear that one of baseball’s most fun players wants to keep having fun.