Reds' Joey Votto to return from COVID-19 absence at Blue Jays

The 11-26 Cincinnati Reds remain responsible for the worst overall record in MLB as of Thursday night but have thus far enjoyed a relatively solid midweek. Cincinnati traveled a few hours and earned two victories at the Cleveland Guardians, and the Reds also received some good news ahead of their weekend series at the Toronto Blue Jays. 

According to ESPN and The Associated Press, Reds veteran first baseman Joey Votto will rejoin the club for the Toronto series after he missed 16 games while on the COVID-19 injured list. Votto, who tested positive for the coronavirus in March 2021, produced a positive test this time on May 3 after he reported symptoms. The six-time All-Star said he felt the effects of his illness for more than a week. 

Votto completed a rehab assignment with High-A Dayton to prepare him for a return to the big-league roster. 

"Nothing comes to mind that would keep me from being there Friday," Votto said of his availability before Thursday's game in Cleveland, per Mark Sheldon of the league's website. "I feel well. I’ve been competing well. I played seven innings yesterday. I’m ready to play." 

The 38-year-old had endured a brutal start to the campaign, as he was batting .122 with zero home runs and three RBI before he was sidelined with the virus. In total, he struck out 29 times across his first 74 at-bats this spring.