The pros and cons of the Reds bringing Joey Votto back in 2024

Pro: Joey Votto provides veteran leadership in the clubhouse

Joey Votto, for most of his career, has not been that vocal leader that most fans think of. Votto usually kept to himself, didn't make waves, stayed off of social media, and kept a low-profile. Quite frankly, most Reds fans had zero problem with Votto's very professional demeanor.

There were those, however, who were critical of a veteran player like Votto who showed very little outward leadership. The past few seasons, however, Votto has become more vocal and was observed tutoring the young players during games last season.

Outfielder Will Benson, in an interview on the Jim Day Podcast, spoke about Votto's presence while at Triple-A Louisville this past during a rehab assignment. Benson lauded praise on Votto and was exceedingly complimentary of the six-time All-Star.

To a man, the other 25 players in the clubhouse love Joey Votto. His manager, David Bell, has nothing but positive things to say about his 40-year-old first baseman as well. To say that Votto is well-liked in the clubhouse would be an understatement.

Would the Cincinnati Reds miss Joey Votto's presence in the clubhouse next season if the former NL MVP was allowed to walk out the door? Absolutely. Is it something the team, as a whole, would be able to overcome? They may not have a choice.