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Joey Votto hits a home run in his debut game for triple-A Buffalo
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    Joey Votto hits a home run in his debut game for triple-A Buffalo

    Joey Votto’s tenure with the Toronto Blue Jays’ triple-A affiliate may have been delayed, but he appears to not have missed a beat while recovering from a tweaked ankle on July 19.

    Making his first start for the Buffalo Bisons on Sunday, the 40-year-old Canadian went 1-for-4 with a walk and a sixth-inning home run that travelled 355 feet down the right-field line.

    Matching up with the Worcester Red Sox, Votto and the Bisons earned a 10-1 win after putting up a four-spot in the first and third innings. Votto drew a walk in the first and came around to score, contributing to the early outburst.

    His home run came in the sixth off right-handed reliever Yohan Ramírez when Votto hit a first-pitch curveball 95.9 m.p.h. for a two-run shot.

    Votto had appeared in Buffalo’s last two games as a pinch-hitter, picking a single and a walk in his first two trips to the plate with the Blue Jays‘ triple-A affiliate.

    The Blue Jays, of course, signed the former NL MVP to a minor-league contract during spring training. But Votto has been limited to just 19 games after rolling his ankle in the dugout after hitting a spring homer in his first at-bat.

    The Toronto native has also dealt with some back issues, which have prevented him from getting the in-game reps needed to return to the major leagues.

    Before his three games with the Bisons, Votto slashed .186/.321/.326 with one home run and eight RBIs across 16 games in the Florida Complex League and with single-A Dunedin.

    On Sunday, Votto served as Buffalo’s designated hitter. He has played only 85.1 innings defensively so far this season.

    The Bisons now return home for a series with the Rochester Red Wings for a six-game set starting on Tuesday.

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    Joey Votto, the veteran first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, made quite the impact in his debut game for the triple-A Buffalo Bisons. The 37-year-old slugger wasted no time in showing off his power, hitting a home run in his very first at-bat with the team.

    Votto, who is on a rehab assignment with the Bisons as he works his way back from a thumb injury, looked comfortable and confident at the plate. His home run came in the first inning of the game, a towering shot that cleared the fence with ease.

    The fans in attendance at Sahlen Field erupted in cheers as Votto rounded the bases, showcasing his trademark smooth swing and power. It was a moment that reminded everyone why Votto is considered one of the best hitters in baseball.

    Votto’s presence in the Bisons lineup is sure to provide a boost to the team as they look to make a push for the playoffs. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to the younger players on the roster, and his bat will add some much-needed pop to the lineup.

    After the game, Votto expressed his excitement at being back on the field and contributing to the team. “It felt great to be out there playing again,” he said. “I’m just happy to be healthy and helping the team win games.”

    With Votto in the lineup, the Bisons have a legitimate shot at making a deep playoff run. His performance in his debut game is a promising sign of things to come, and fans can expect to see more big hits from the Reds’ star in the days ahead.