The Reds need a healthy Joey Votto to contend in the NL Central. (David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports)
Don’t think for a second that Joey Votto doesn’t hear the noise. The Reds first baseman not only listens, he takes it to heart. And, who can blame him?
On Saturday, Votto addressed reporters upon his arrival to spring training camp in Goodyear, Ariz., and fired back at detractors who questioned his approach at the plate and production, placed up against his 10-year, $225 million contract extension signed in 2012.
“I think that’s to be expected, because I am the guy who has the big contract,” Votto said. “There are times where it can be a bit of a nuisance, because I have to answer a question. Most of it is noise. I think that I’ve proven, when healthy, that I’m a helpful part of the team. I do my part.”
Votto missed 99 games last season due to a distal quad strain in his left knee. When he did play, Votto clearly wasn’t the same hitter, batting just .255 with a .390 on-base percentage, below his career marks of .310 and .417.
When healthy, Votto has been Cincinnati’s best offensive player. His absence from the lineup last year partly was responsible for the Reds failing to produce 600 runs in a season for the first time in more than 30 years.
Votto’s power production dipped sharply while his on-base numbers rose the past two seasons. After he publicly pronounced his preference to get on base versus driving in runs, the venom began to spew from fans and some media pundits.
“I’m glad I can be a lightning rod, as long as I’m a lightning rod while performing,” Votto said. “You cannot deny that (when healthy) I have performed and been able to provide value for the team and able to help the team get to the playoffs.”
As of Saturday, Votto had yet to be evaluated by the club’s medical staff. But, the 2010 National League Most Valuable Player said he’s much improved from last season, when he missed the final 76 games.
“As far as how I feel now, I feel very good,” Votto said. “I’m swinging, I’m throwing, I’m taking ground balls, I’m running. It’s a pretty big contrast to the end of the season last year.”
