A Legend’s Reflection
In a wide‑ranging conversation, Joey Votto opened up about the unexpected detours that have defined his life since stepping away from the diamond. After decades of elite performance, the former National League MVP found himself boarding planes to far‑flung corners of the world, immersing himself in cultures that would later shape his perspective on and off the field.
During an eight‑week stint in Japan, Votto enrolled in a sushi‑chef course, an experience he describes as both humbling and enlightening. The discipline required in the kitchen, he says, mirrors the meticulous preparation that once defined his approach to batting and fielding.
Ohtani’s Historic Season
The conversation then turned to the current generation of talent, especially two‑way phenom Shohei Ohtani. Votto called Ohtani’s season the most dominant he has ever witnessed, noting that the Japanese star’s combination of power and precision rivals the feats of Tiger Woods on the golf course and Michael Jordan on the basketball court.
Votto recounted a vivid moment when Ohtani launched a home run just days after learning he would need Tommy John surgery, a testament to his mental resilience and physical prowess. That episode, he argues, encapsulates why Ohtani’s campaign is being etched into baseball lore.
Beyond individual brilliance, Votto emphasized the intangible glue that holds a clubhouse together. He spoke of selflessness, of players who prioritize the team’s success over personal milestones, and of the quiet leaders who keep the locker room grounded.
The Future of the Strike Zone
Looking ahead, the former catcher expressed unease about the prospect of automated balls and strikes, warning that such technology could erode the nuanced artistry that has long defined the game. ‘If I were still playing,’ he mused, ‘the idea of a machine calling the strike zone would be a loss of the sport’s soul.’