Joey Votto Free Agency: Top 3 landing spots for veteran 1B explored

Joey Votto, the first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, has become a free agent for the first time in his career. The club decided not to exercise his $20 million club option and instead opted to pay him a $7 million buyout.

Votto has been with the Reds for 17 season since his debut in 2007 against the New York Mets. In 2014, he signed a 10-year contract worth $225 million, which included a no-trade clause. Over the years, Votto has been a standout player, earning six All-Star nods, a Gold Glove, and the MVP award in 2010.

On that note, here's a look at three landing spots for Votto in free agency:

#1. Toronto Blue Jays

Joey Votto, born and raised in Toronto, has always dreamed of playing for his hometown team.

“It brought me back to the times I was a kid and throwing against a wall, picking out a brick and aiming for it and fielding a ground ball, like I'm preparing for the season,” Votto said.

“It was really cold, but it definitely brought me back, brought good memories back and reminded me how much joy and how I felt about baseball for the first little bit of my life when I started dabbling in it.”

Now that he is a free agent, there is a strong chance he could switch from the Reds to the Blue Jays. MLB insider Jim Bowden reported in March that Reds GM Nick Krall was willing to trade Votto to the Blue Jays at the time.

Given his experience, Joey Votto could be a valuable addition to the Blue Jays. He could support Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first base and also fill in if Guerrero Jr. gets injured. He could also be a wise DH option for Toronto.

#2. New York Mets

The New York Mets may also be interested in acquiring the veteran player. They have limited options when it comes to first basemen, with only Pete Alonso (29) and Mark Vientos (24). If either of these players has a bad season or gets injured, Votto could cover for them and provide the team with a DH option if needed.

#3 Chicago Cubs

Since Cody Bellinger became a free agent, the Cubs have only two players for that position - Trey Mancini and Patrick Wisdom. In this scenario, Joey Votto could be a wise acquisition.

Ultimately, Votto could be a wise choice for many teams who need depth and experience in their roster.