Joey Votto activated from IL, making first start of the season tonight vs. Rockies

CINCINNATI — Reds veteran Joey Votto will make his 2023 season debut tonight.

Votto took to social media Monday afternoon to announce his return to the team. The announcement came after he teased his return over the weekend.

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The longtime first baseman will bat sixth tonight and play first when the Reds take on the Colorado Rockies.

Votto, 39, spent almost a year on the injured list after undergoing left shoulder surgery in August 2022.

At a press conference Monday afternoon, Votto said he’s finally at a point where his health is not a concern when he plays, our news partners at WCPO reported.

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Votto said he’s proud to be returning to a team with such a talented roster. The Reds have won eight games in a row and are a half-game out of first place in the NL Central.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. at Great American Ballpark.

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