No Canadian has appeared in more major league baseball games than Joey Votto.
The Cincinnati Reds first baseman played the 1,989th game of his career on Sunday in an 8-5 win over the Chicago Cubs.
In doing so, he erased the record that belonged to former Expo Larry Walker, a native of Maple Ridge, British Columbia.
Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame officials presented Votto with a plaque commemorating his feat after the game.
“To break the all-time record set by Larry Walker is indisputable proof of the determination, resilience and undying skills of Joey Votto,” said Jeremy Diamond, Board Director of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Canadian, by press release.
“Most importantly, Joey has conducted himself with class and dignity throughout his career. He continues to be a role model and an inspiration to Canadian players. Congratulations to him for this remarkable achievement. »
It’s the latest feat from Votto, who leads all Canadian players in at-bats, visits to plate, walks made and all-star game selections (six ).
Votto remains under contract for the next season (with an option clause at the discretion of the team in 2024). That should give the 38-year-old Torontonian an opportunity to come close and maybe even erase the records for doubles (471) and hits (2,160) by a Canadian player, both of which belong to Walker.
Currently, Votto has 453 doubles and 2,093 hits.
Votto is in his 16th campaign with the Reds. He led the National League seven times in field goal average, five in walks batted out and posted a batting average over .300 in eight full seasons.
In 2021, he hit 36 homers and reached three career-significant plateaus when he got his 2,000th hit, 300th homer, and 1,000th RBI.
“We are proud to honor this remarkable achievement by Joey, but we hope to continue to hold this type of presentation as he continues his career as a record holder as he continues to rewrite the record books,” added Diamond.