Joey Votto is officially hanging up the spikes.
After a 17-year big league career, the six-time All-Star announced in an Instagram video on Wednesday that he’s retiring from baseball.
After almost two decades with the Reds, Votto had attempted to catch on with the Blue Jays this year after a lengthy — and well-publicized — free agency but did not get an MLB call-up after 31 minor league games.
“That’s it — I’m done. I’m officially retired from baseball,” Votto said in the video from outside Sahlen Field, home of the Buffalo Bisons, the Triple-A affiliate of the Blue Jays.
The first baseman added a lengthy caption to his post, showing gratitude toward his family for making his career possible.
He also thanked plenty in the baseball world, including former Reds teammate Jay Bruce and ex-skipper Dusty Baker.
“Toronto + Canada, I wanted to play in front of you,” he wrote. “Sigh, I tried with all my heart to play for my people. I’m just not good anymore. Thank you for all the support during my attempt. Cincinnati, I’ve only played for you. I love you. Finally, to the MLB fans. You energized me with your cheers, I loved the boos, the trash talk, the moments where I broke a road cities moment, or was humbled on stage. … was myself in this sport. I was able to be my best self. I played this sport with every last ounce of my body, heart, and mind. Thank you for everything.”
The 2010 National League MVP ends his career with 2,135 hits and a .294/.409/.511 slash line.
His 1,365 walks were most among active players before his retirement on Wednesday.
