Votto: 'I'll do whatever it takes to get back on a major-league field'
Free-agent first baseman Joey Votto is preparing to play this season and has his sights set on finding a job for the 2024 campaign.
"Right now, I am doing my training on a daily basis in preparation for joining a team," Votto told ESPN during Thursday's game between the Atlanta Braves and Boston Red Sox.
He added, "More than anything, I am sitting here jealous. I'll do whatever it takes to get back on a major-league field. I miss it, I miss it so much. I will be back - not too long."
The Reds declined Votto's $20-million option last November and their general manager, Nick Krall, made it clear the team didn't expect to re-sign him. Votto suggested Thursday that his agent is gaining ground on a deal somewhere.
"We're making progress, I think. ... There's nothing like putting on a major-league uniform," the 2010 NL MVP said.
The 40-year-old's market has been quiet after he hit .202/.314/.433 with 14 home runs and 38 RBIs in 65 games last season. His OPS against left-handed pitching was .897 in 45 at-bats.
The Los Angeles Angels and Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly showed interest in Votto this winter.