Joey Votto’s journey begins anew with the Toronto Blue Jays: ‘I feel the fire’
In Dunedin, Florida, at 11:39 on a Sunday morning, all eyes were on Field 5 of the once-celebrated Cecil P. Englebert minor-league complex, now belonging to the Toronto Blue Jays. In this unexpected setting, Canadian baseball legend Joey Votto found himself in a batting box, experiencing the first live batting practice of his ongoing baseball journey.
Facing him from sixty feet away was Eric Pardinho, a 23-year-old Brazilian reliever whose past season in High A didn’t boast a stellar ERA of 7.15. Nonetheless, he confidently delivered a four-seam fastball that Votto swung through. Walking off the mound with a grin stretching from ear to ear, Pardinho jokingly exclaimed, “I just struck out Joey Gallo!” Close enough. Welcome to the Blue Jays, Joey Votto.
Baseball mirrors life’s unpredictable journey, and Joseph Daniel Votto’s story is no exception. Born and raised in Toronto, still cherishing memories of Joe Carter’s iconic 1993 World Series home run, Votto’s journey came full circle as he officially joined the Blue Jays over the weekend, albeit as a Buffalo Bison in Triple-A under a minor-league contract worth $2 million if he reaches the majors this season.
While everyone, from the Blue Jays’ front office to Votto’s family and likely even Canadian icons like Nickelback and parliamentarians, hopes for his success, Votto himself understands the essence of a captivating baseball narrative better than anyone. As he reflected on his journey amidst the Florida fields, he acknowledged the uncertainty and determination that marked his earlier years, now reignited at the age of 40 as he embarks on this new chapter.
Votto graciously allowed observers to shadow him on his first day as a Blue Jay, symbolizing the fresh beginnings and new challenges ahead. After 17 seasons wearing No. 19 for the Cincinnati Reds, he now dons the No. 37 jersey in a locker nestled among non-roster invitees, a stark departure from his former prominence. Yet, Votto isn’t seeking special treatment or attaching sentimental value to his new number, making it clear that his focus lies on earning his place on the team rather than the digits on his uniform.
