“What led me to that decision was just not being ready,” Votto said, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. “Starting a good bit behind during spring training. Still working through some of the rehab process. Not accumulating enough time in the field.
“Not accumulating enough at-bats. [Sunday] was the first day where I felt semi-close to being able to play close to 100%. It takes a stretch of time feeling that way before you feel like you are regular-season ready.”
A six-time All-Star and 2010 NL MVP, Votto hit just .205 last season with 11 homers and 41 RBIs. He is heading into the final season of the 10-year, $225 million extension he signed with the Reds in 2012.
