Joey Votto: Part Of The MLB Canadian Contingent

Canadian Shining Stars In Major League Baseball

That, however, is the steep path that Etobicoke (Toronto), Canada, native Joey Votto, has been following since 2007. Votto, an assuming first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, is following the lead of Canadian baseball pioneers like the legendary Ferguson (Fergie) Jenkins, Larry Walker, Jason Bay, and Justin Morneau.

Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto is without question one of the most successful position players in the history of the MLB. The 36-year Toronto man is a six-time All-Star and a onetime National League MVP, since joining the league in 2007. In the all-time batting rankings, Baloto places 27th, putting him in amongst the greats like Willie Mays, Joe DiMaggio, and Hank Aaron. He boasts an on-base percentage of .421%, the same as Mickey Mantle. Though it must be said, Joey Votto had his worst season yet in 2019, with the man himself coming clean about the fact “Everything went the wrong way.”

Russell Martin, Free Agent

The 36-year old Russell Martin is currently still a free agent, though he’s expected to rejoin the Los Angeles Dodgers for the 2020 season. In his 14 seasons in the MLB, he’s played in 10 postseasons but is yet to earn a World Series winner. Everyone who’s played with or managed Martin has great things to say about him. His 2019 season was filled with disappointment, as injuries ensured he didn’t get going. There was much speculation about retirement for the MLB vet, but he has committed to next season and is training harder than ever.

Josh Naylor, San Diego Padres

The 22-year old joined the Padres from the Marlins back in July 2016, since then he’s come on leaps and bounds. His fitness has always been a concern and whether or not he can do the job defensively. The left-hander is hitting well enough, but he’ll need to do even better if he wants a role in the majors. Naylor will have to compete with the likes of Wil Myer, Manuel Margot, newcomer Trent Grisham, which makes life for the one-dimensional Naylor even harder. He’s a lovable character and both the team and fans are rooting for him to succeed in San Diego.