A reunion between the Cincinnati Reds and longtime first baseman Joey Votto seems inevitable, doesn't it? But what role might Votto play in the future? Perhaps one of Votto's counterparts has paved the way for reunion with the Reds.
Former Colorado Rockies outfielder — the newly retired Charlie Blackmon — just like Votto, spent his entire career with one organization. Blackmon debuted with the Rockies in 2011, and after a 14-year career, four trips to the All-Star Game, two Silver Slugger Awards, and the NL batting title in 2017, he hung up his cleats in 2024.
Recently, Blackmon agreed to rejoin the Rockies organization, but in a different capacity. After roaming the outfield in the Mile High City for over a decade, Blackmon will now take on a front office role as the assistant to Rockies General Manager Bill Schmidt.
Longtime Rockies' centerpiece Charlie Blackmon provides blueprint for Joey Votto's future with Reds
Many Reds fans have advocated for Votto to join the team's broadcast booth. It's something the former MVP has done on multiple occasions in the past, and Votto would no doubt thrive in that type of environment. Votto is an entertainer at heart, as evidenced by his numerous social media escapades and long-heralded relationship with opposing fanbases. Quite frankly, Votto could push past the boundaries of local broadcasts and should be given an opportunity on the national stage.
But if the former Reds All-Star wants to reestablish his roots in the Queen City after a year away with his boyhood Toronto Blue Jays, maybe a front office gig with his former club would suit Votto well. Many have mentioned coaching as an option for Votto, but Terry Francona's staff is already filled out ahead of the 2025 season. Votto could take on a coaching role at spring training, much like Reds' greats Barry Larkin and Eric Davis do every year.
Votto posted a cryptic social media message late last year that had many Reds fans assuming his impending return to the only organization he's ever played for. There's been some behind-the-scenes discussions about a Votto return in 2025, but his role has yet to be defined.