What is Joey Votto's contract situation heading into the offseason?

Joey Votto first made his MLB debut back in September of 2007, and the rest was indeed history. The Cincinnati Reds first baseman more than played his part in the team's success over the years.

Votto's accolades truly speak for themselves. He is a six-time All-Star and even won the NL MVP back in 2010. Over the course of his career, Votto has broken numerous Reds' records, and he may not be done just yet.

With all of that said, unfortunately, all things come to an end. Father Time is undefeated, and at 40 years old, Votto's future in definitely in question. So, what is Votto's contract situation heading into the offseason?

What is Joey Votto's contract situation heading into the offseason?

Joey Votto is in the final guaranteed year of the enormous 10-year/$225 million contract. The Cincinnati Reds signed Votto to an extension back in 2012, virtually locking him up for the entirety of his MLB career. Looking back on it, this wasn't a bad choice and it definitely paid off.

During the span of Votto's contract, he's hit .287/.411/.495 with 237 home runs and 740 RBI. Votto led the league in on-base percentage five times, was among the top MVP vote-getters on four occasions, went to four All-Star Games, and played over 110 games eight times. Votto was also robbed a second MVP in 2017.

Perhaps the most interesting note about Votto's extension is the fact that the Reds have a club-option worth $20 million for the 2024 season with a $7-million buyout. It seems unlikely that Cincinnati will exercise that option, but a buyout coupled with a new deal could be in the cards.

Joey Votto is one of the most beloved Cincinnati Reds players in a long time. Votto has been with the team through a lot of highs and lows. The Reds will need to make a tough choice this offseason. However, it shouldn't be too tough to find some common ground and allow Votto to retire as a member of the Reds.