Joey Votto Eyes Canadian History With Toronto Blue Jays in 2024

Toronto native Joey Votto has secured a deal with the Blue Jays, igniting the possibility of etching his name into Canadian baseball lore with his hometown team.

Born and raised in Toronto, Votto presently holds the second position among Canadian-born MLB players with 2,135 career hits. With just 25 hits shy, Votto stands on the cusp of surpassing the longstanding record set by Larry Walker, the former right fielder for the Colorado Rockies, who boasts 2,160 hits.

During his illustrious 17-season tenure with the Cincinnati Reds, Votto garnered six All-Star selections and clinched the NL MVP title once. Notably, he has also represented Team Canada in the World Baseball Classic.

Despite experiencing a decline in batting average in recent years, dropping to .240 over the past five seasons, including a career-low .202 in 2023, Votto remains a formidable presence at the plate. In the previous season, he managed 42 hits across 65 games, showcasing his enduring prowess.

With a potential spot on the Opening Day roster within reach pending a solid performance in Spring Training, Votto’s opportunity to rewrite Canadian baseball history looms large. Furthermore, his illustrious career trajectory positions him as a prospective candidate for induction into the Hall of Fame alongside compatriots Larry Walker and Fergie Jenkins.

While Votto currently leads all active MLB players in career hits, his perch atop this category may soon be challenged by Los Angeles Dodgers’ first baseman Freddie Freeman, who trails closely behind by a mere 21 hits.

As Votto embarks on this historic journey with the Blue Jays, the baseball world eagerly anticipates witnessing his quest for greatness unfold.