Votto’s New Role on NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball
Joey Votto, the longtime Cincinnati Reds stalwart, will make his broadcast debut as a studio analyst for NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball on July 26. The announcement marks a full‑circle moment for a player who spent 17 seasons shaping the Reds’ lineup and now will help shape the network’s baseball coverage.
Starting in 2026, Votto will join Hall of Famers Clayton Kershaw and Anthony Rizzo on NBC’s MLB telecasts, with the games also streaming on Peacock. The trio brings together three distinct eras of pitching excellence, promising viewers a blend of veteran insight and fresh perspective.
A Historian’s Eye and a Data‑Driven Mind
Beyond his on‑field achievements, Votto has long been fascinated by the analytical side of the game. He once revealed that his pick for the best right‑handed hitter in MLB history is Frank Thomas, while also highlighting Nick Kurtz’s staggering .423 on‑base percentage as a benchmark for modern hitters.
Votto’s analytical curiosity dates back to 2015, when he hired a specialist to map pitchers’ stuff and umpire tendencies. That data‑driven approach not only refined his own preparation but also inspired the Reds to install a clock on Crosley Terrace outside Great American Ball Park, a subtle tribute to the team’s heritage.
Off the mound, Votto’s personal touches add charm to his public persona. He named his dog Morgan after the late Hall of Famer Joe Morgan, a nod to the legends who paved the way for today’s stars.
The upcoming broadcast will give fans a chance to hear Votto’s unique blend of storytelling, statistical savvy, and personal anecdotes, promising a richer viewing experience for baseball enthusiasts across the United States and beyond.