When Joey Votto steps onto the set of NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball pregame show, the former Cincinnati Reds stalwart will trade his glove for a microphone, a move that has him both excited and apprehensive.
After a 17‑year tenure that made him one of the most consistent hitters in modern baseball, Votto announced his retirement in August 2024. The quiet retirement was followed by a globe‑spanning itinerary that included yoga instructor certification and a visit to the Reds’ Class‑A affiliate in Daytona, Florida, where he watched a new generation of talent.
Among the prospects, 20‑year‑old Elly De La Cruz caught his eye. Votto praised the shortstop’s blend of relentless drive and disarming humility, noting that the energy he sees on the field reminds him of the early days of his own career.
His reflections extend beyond the diamond. Votto has spoken about the value of watching great players, arguing that the sport’s true legacy often lies in the moments of brilliance that fans absorb rather than the trophies they chase. He cites baseball legend Vince Carter as a model of longevity, suggesting that a single player can shape an era for decades.
A New Chapter
Starting this fall, Votto will appear on a handful of regular‑season broadcasts and will serve as a pregame analyst for the network’s wild‑card coverage. The transition from player to analyst has not been without nerves; he admits that the sheer scope of the game from a broadcast perspective is a steep learning curve, but the prospect of sharing the stories that shaped his career fuels his determination.