Joey Votto Signed a Ball for a Young Fan After Ejection: "Sorry I didn't play the entire game"
Joey Votto was ejected in the top of the first inning of Saturday's Cincinnati Reds - San Diego Padres game. Reds manager David Bell and a Padres fan followed him. It was a whole thing. Almost lost in all this was the fact that there was a young Reds fan named Abigail at her first MLB game who was heartbroken when Votto, her favorite player, got tossed before he even got to put on his glove.
@Reds When it’s your first MLB game and your favorite player of all time gets thrown out of the game in the first inning…. ??? #weloveyoujoey pic.twitter.com/h7lganVo3s
— Kristin (@SuperBarry11) June 19, 2021
The Reds organization was all over this and for once the power and immediacy of social media was used for good. Before the game was over Abigail had an autographed Joey Votto baseball that came with one of the funniest inscriptions you will ever see.
I have an update on the sad Abigail situation! It took a couple of innings, but she eventually cheered up with some popcorn! And Joey Votto is SO KIND- he signed this amazing ball for her!! Thank you so much Mr. Votto & the wonderful @Reds ❤️⚾️ pic.twitter.com/aIsHx3r42N
— Kristin (@SuperBarry11) June 20, 2021
"I am sorry I didn't lay the entire game. - Joey Votto"
I understand how frustrated Votto must have been, but I hope he was able to appreciate how great a moment this turned into.
A VERY happy little Joey Votto fan at bedtime tonight!!! ❤️⚾️ A big thank you again to Joey Votto and the @Reds for making Abigail’s first MLB game so special and memorable! pic.twitter.com/iKrQWHrx4E
— Kristin (@SuperBarry11) June 20, 2021
It's incredible how easy it is to turn around an entire day like this. Good for Votto, the Reds, and most importantly, Abigail.