Votto's greatest hits, most memorable antics

Joey Votto created plenty of memories both on and off the field during his illustrious 17-year MLB career before retiring Wednesday.

Votto earned a reputation as one of the game's most unique characters, often giving an eccentric quote with his trademark quick wit and sense of humor. On the diamond, the 2010 NL MVP and six-time All-Star authored many moments that could earn him enshrinement in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Here, we take a look at some of Votto's greatest hits - both literal and colloquial - over the years.

3-homer game, capped by a walk-off grand slam

Votto put together one of the signature games of his career against the Washington Nationals in 2012. He belted three home runs, including a walk-off grand slam with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning.

A memorable first career hit

Votto gave Reds fans a taste of what was to come over the next 17 seasons in his first big-league start. He crushed a home run for his first career MLB hit off New York Mets right-hander John Maine. It was Votto's first of 356 career round-trippers in a Reds uniform, good for second on Cincinnati's all-time list.

Memorable return after long injury layoff

Votto missed almost a year of action after undergoing shoulder surgery in August 2022. He returned on June 19, 2023, hitting a home run and adding a two-run single to help the Reds to a ninth consecutive victory. It would be one of his final signature moments in Cincinnati.

Going toe-to-toe with "Mad Dog"

Votto took legendary broadcaster Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo to task after he said Votto wasn't on the list of active players likely to become a Hall of Famer.

Riding the subway to play chess

Votto, who grew up in Toronto, spent his offseasons in his hometown and did what he could to blend in.

Donning a unique outfit for an interview

Votto dressed up as a Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer, commonly known as a "Mountie," for an interview in 2014.

Making it up to young fan after ejection

In June 2021, six-year-old Abigail traveled to see Votto play against the San Diego Padres. However, Votto was ejected in the first inning.

Votto made it up to her the next day, giving Abigail and her family a memory that'll last a lifetime.