Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto may have just played his last MLB game, but the possibility of his return remains unclear. The 40-year-old just concluded the 17th season of his career in the major league, all spent with the Reds.

The six-time MLB All-Star expressed his feelings about his recent praise and attention, admitting that he's been conflicted about pulling the plug on his playing days. Nevertheless, Votto remains uncertain whether he will ever return to play in the MLB.

"As far as my future, my individual future, I'm still not there yet.. I recognize the interest, but I just don't have an answer yet. We'll see," the 2010 National League Most Valuable Player said.

Votto recorded a batting average of .202 with an OPS of .747 for the 2023 season, appearing in 65 games. He also contributed 14 home runs and 38 runs batted in (RBIs).

The 2010 NL Hank Aaron awardee finished a 10-year, $225 million contract extension he signed in 2012. The deal includes a 2024 club option valued at $20 million, with a $7 million buyout option.

Joey Votto ejected in potential final MLB game

Votto's potential final game with the Reds against the St. Louis Cardinals was brief.

The first baseman was ejected from the game by plate umpire Shane Livensparger due to an argument following Votto's strikeout during his sole at-bat in the first inning of the game on Sunday, October 1, which resulted in a 4-3 loss for the Reds.

Votto issued an apology for his actions.