Joey Votto’s guaranteed contract has expired, and the Reds are most likely not going to exercise his option. Votto might retire.

The Cincinnati Reds’ guaranteed portion of Joey Votto’s deal has come to an end. Is the former National League MVP’s career over now? The Reds have the option to use a $20 million buyout clause in the last year of his contract, but it appears likely that they will opt for a $7 million buyout. Votto has stated that he intends to play at least one more season, ideally with the Reds, despite reports of his impending retirement. He admitted on The Dan Patrick Show that if Cincinnati decides to move on, he might think about joining another team.

Votto hasn’t produced much over the past two seasons by his usual standards, barely breaking the dreaded Mendoza line. His downfall is primarily due to age and injuries. He very recently turned 40 last month. Votto is one of the five oldest players in the majors, following the retirements of Miguel Cabrera and Adam Wainwright.