Reds, Votto make 10-year extension official

Apr 4, 2012 - 7:40 PM Cincinnati, OH (Sports Network) - The Cincinnati Reds made their long-term commitment to Joey Votto official on Wednesday, signing the first baseman to a 10-year contract.

Contract terms were not disclosed, but multiple outlets reported it to be worth $225 million, which would be the fourth-largest in professional sports history.

Votto's new deal will execute upon the conclusion of his current contract, a three-year deal he signed in January 2011. It alsoincludes a no-trade clause, meaning he will stay in Cincinnati through at least the 2023 season. The club also has an option for the 2024 campaign.

"We recognize the historical significance of this signing. Ownership has committed to Joey, and we anticipate that he will continue to be one of the best players in baseball for the next decade or so," said Reds general manager Walt Jocketty. "He wants to stay here, and we want him here. We have shown we are committed to building a solid foundation from within the organization."

Votto hit .309 with 29 home runs and 103 runs batted in last season, posting career-highs in doubles (40) and walks (110), and earned his first Gold Glove award to go with his second consecutive All-Star appearance.

"Joey not only is one of the game's best players, but on the field and in the community he represents himself, the organization and our city with extraordinary professionalism and dignity," Reds president and CEO Bob Castellini said. "We certainly are proud to be able to keep him in Cincinnati for 12 more years."

The 2010 National League most valuable player has recorded a .313 batting average with 119 home runs and 401 RBI during his five-year MLB tenure, all with the Reds.