5 truths about the Cincinnati Reds that fans do not want to hear

4. Joey Votto will be back in a Reds uniform in 2024.

If David Bell is the most polarizing person in the Cincinnati Reds clubhouse, Joey Votto is a close second. Votto is generally beloved by the majority of Reds fans, but he has his fair share of detractors as well.

But even the biggest Votto hater knows that this isn't the end of the line for the former NL MVP, right? Votto is in the final guaranteed year of the 10-year contract extension he signed back in 2012. The six-time All-Star has a $20-million club-option for next season with a $7-million buyout.

While it seems highly unlikely that Cincinnati will bring Votto back at that $20-million number, there's every reason to believe that the organization and Votto will work something out during the offseason in order for the slugger to return for one more season.

Joey Votto has been the face of Cincinnati Reds baseball for the better part of a decade, and it just feels like the 40-year-old isn't ready to hang up his cleats just yet. Though his 2023 season was curtailed by a shoulder injury, it's hard to believe that Votto will want to walk away from what could be his best chance to win a ring since 2012.

The truth of the matter is that this decision ultimate lies with Joey Votto. If Votto can accept a reduced role and not anticipate being a full-time starter, the Reds will likely welcome him back with open arms. Look for Votto to be back in the Reds dugout next season.