Long-time Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman is a legend. Yet, this quote about Reds first baseman Joey Votto is…well, it’s downright silly, if we’re being blunt here.
"if this guy comes back and is content to lead the lead in OBP again, then this team is in deep trouble,"-Marty on Votto #Reds @700wl
— LanceMcAlister (@LanceMcAlister) February 13, 2015
Only four hitters with at least 400 plate appearances had an OBP of at least .400 – Andrew McCutchen, Victor Martinez, Jose Bautista, and (surprisingly) Russell Martin. They were four of the very best hitters in baseball. Joey Votto has a career .417 OBP, and when he’s been healthy, he’s been one of the best players in baseball.
If Joey Votto leads the league in OBP and the Reds are horrible, it’s not his fault. Maybe point the finger at guys like Brandon Phillips, who only hit .266/.306/.372 last year. Or maybe look at guys like Billy Hamilton, who despite his 56 stolen bases, only hit .250/.292/.355. Or how about turning your attention to Jay Bruce and his pitiful .217/.281/.373 line.
When no one gets on base in front of Votto, he can’t drive anyone in. When no one behind Votto can hit, he can’t score. When Votto’s not in the lineup, the Reds can’t do anything offensively – period. Their .296 OBP last season was second worst in baseball, and only the Padres and Braves scored fewer runs.
But go on, Marty. Explain how the Reds are “in trouble” if Joey Votto leads the league in OBP. It can’t get much worse than last year.
