Is Joey Votto being traded to Toronto Blue Jays? Latest rumors and news updates

As the MLB season approaches, Joey Votto and the Cincinnati Reds are looking ahead, not only to the upcoming campaign but to the future beyond the 2023 season. According to reports, the future Hall of Famer has an interest in playing for the Toronto Blue Jays before he hangs up his cleats.

"Nick Krall #Reds GM told us their plan is for Joey Votto to finish his career as a Red. However, if the Reds are out of it at the trade deadline and Votto came to them and asked if they would trade him home to Toronto #BlueJays..he said he would consider under those circumstances" MLB insider Jim Bowden tweeted.

Toronto Blue Jays fans have wanted to see the Canadian baseball legend return home to play north of the border. The former National League MVP has reportedly had discussions with the front office of the Cincinnati Reds, asking if a move to Canada could be in the cards if the Reds are out of contention by the trade deadline.

Reds general manager Nick Krall has reportedly not rejected the idea, but it would depend on the circumstances of the team. The upcoming season is the final guaranteed year on Joey Votto's current contract; however, the Reds hold a team option for the 2024 season.

At 39 years old, Votto may not have much time left in the MLB, so a move to the Blue Jays this season may make the most sense for both parties. While Votto may no longer be the player he was during his prime, when he is healthy, he can still be a productive player at the MLB level.

Last season with the Cincinnati Reds, Votto struggled with his production and his health. The veteran first baseman only played 91 games, batting .205 with 11 home runs and 41 RBIs.

While those numbers suggest that Joey Votto's career may be coming to an end, he had a solid 2021-2022 season. Through 129 games, Votto hit .266 with 23 home runs and 99 RBIs. A move to the Toronto Blue Jays may motivate Votto to turn back the clock one last time, however, it would likely be in a role off the bench given Toronto's roster construction.

A look at Joey Votto's MLB career

If Votto were to retire following the 2023 season, he would like find himself inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame when first eligible. Through 1991 games in the MLB, Votto has maintained a career .297 batting average, while also recording 342 home runs, 1,106 RBIs and 2,093 hits.

He has been named an All-Star six times and won a Gold Glove Award, as well as the National League MVP in 2010, beating out Albert Pujols and Carlos Gonzalez for the award.