Don’t go selling those Joey Votto jerseys just yet, Cincinnati.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports on Wednesday, the Reds have no intention of trading Votto, citing his leadership in the clubhouse along with his talent.
The #Reds have no intention of trading Joey Votto, Reds say, citing not only his obvious talent, but his clubhouse leadership.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 9, 2016
Votto, 33, has been with the Reds for his entire nine-year career. A four-time All-Star and former NL MVP, he enjoyed another strong season in 2016, posting a .326/.434/.550 slash line with 29 home runs and 97 RBIs.
Cincinnati appeared to have been open to moving their veteran first baseman just a few months ago, which makes sense given the incentive to rebuild for a team coming off three straight losing campaigns. But Votto now appears to be safe, so those in need of first base help should probably be looking elsewhere.
