(Frank Victores-US PRESSWIRE)
Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto was back on the active roster Tuesday. The next step — being in the lineup — will come Wednesday.
“We’ve got a plan,” Reds manager Dusty Baker said before Tuesday’s 2-1 win over the Phillies. “I’ll pinch-hit him in an emergency. He’s not 100 percent sharp sharp yet. But he’s still Joey Votto. We’ve got a plan. I can’t tell you exactly what the plan is. The plan’s going to change every day, depending on how he feels. As of right now, he’ll probably start tomorrow.
“Then we’ve got to watch him if there’s a long inning or whatever, if he gets sore or makes a wrong move. We’re going to try to preserve him and work him back in there. Tomorrow’s important because he has an off day the next day. That’s big.”
Votto has missed 39 games after surgery on his left knee. His return will be a boost, obviously.
“Joey Votto’s Joey Votto,” Baker said. “They don’t make them like him too much. We’re glad to have him back big time. We’re a lot better with Joey Votto.”
Votto will likely hit third and Brandon Phillips will go to leadoff.
“I’ve got to talk to them first,” Baker said. “Third is Joey’s spot. I’m sure I’ll get a lot of help on what my lineup should be — as usual.”
Votto was fine with the decision.
“I think the decision was made as a whole,” Votto said. “I think ultimately Dusty is the one who pencils in the lineup. I think working me in slowly is the wise move.”
