All-Star Game of great importance for Joey Votto – MLB News
The Cincinnati Reds’ Joey Votto on Tuesday, July 10, expressed his satisfaction with his appearance in the All-Star Game. The Reds’ accomplished slugger was initially in sixes and sevens as far as his participation in the big encounter was concerned given his knee issues.
It was not clear if he would play the game. When he did, he was called in during the fifth inning where he struck-out once and grounded out twice. The extraordinarily talented player representing the Reds in National League team is in itself a matter of pride.
Although he was not very instrumental in the big 8-0 win that the National League had over the American League, Votto’s playing the game held significance.
That was something that he himself also alluded to when asked if being a sub made any difference.
"Big difference," he said. "It makes a difference, because [when you're a sub] you never know when you're going to get called in the middle of the game, and you've got to get warmed up and you're nervous. Starting, you can work on a standard routine. And I think there's a pride to it, too, to get your name called and hear the applause. Everybody knows who the starters are."
This year’s National League team had come up with a great opportunity for this incredible slugger. Since both Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder have gone to the American League, Votto had the opportunity to play as first baseman.
Knee issue might have created a hurdle, but Votto’s ability to come and play was no less than an achievement. He has truly lived up to the reputation of a true professional player featuring in this game.
What is more interesting to note is that Votto wants more All-Star appearances and deservingly so. "If you go a season without that," he said, "it's like, 'What the heck happened there?' It's something I look forward to each year.”
In 83 appearances this year, Votto has held an impressive .348 average in 287 at-bats, hitting 14 home-runs and 48 RBIs with a great slugging percentage of .617.
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