In a recent segment on the MLB Network show "MLB Now," former Cincinnati Reds standout Joey Votto expressed his admiration for the Milwaukee Brewers fanbase, suggesting they may be the best in Major League Baseball. Votto's comments, made on September 4, highlight the loyalty and passion of Brewers fans, even during challenging seasons for the team.
Votto reflected on his experiences in the league, noting that during the 2010s, both the Brewers and Reds faced periods of struggle. However, he observed a stark difference in fan support. "During the [2010s], I remember quite vividly them not being a strong club, and I remember our team, the Cincinnati Reds, having stretches of not being a strong club and our fanbase wouldn’t show up," Votto stated. He contrasted this with the Brewers fans, who consistently filled the stands regardless of the team's performance, saying, "This does not get enough credit. This is a fanbase that always supports their team and will at some point have a strong club and be able to reap the rewards from their consistent effort."
Votto's praise for the Brewers fanbase extends beyond mere attendance; he highlighted their unique game-day culture, particularly the tailgating tradition that has become synonymous with Brewers home games. "There’s not many fanbases that tailgate before a game, and they would do that every single day. So I have true admiration," he remarked. This dedication to supporting the team, even when the Brewers were not performing at their best, has earned them a special place in Votto's heart.
In addition to his admiration for the fans, Votto also commended the Brewers organization for its ability to compete effectively as a small-market team. He pointed out that many small-market franchises struggle to maintain competitiveness, but the Brewers have consistently found ways to field a competitive roster. "There are some teams that consistently, year-over-year, are coming up with some sort of method to be able to put out a fantastic product," he explained. Votto noted that while the Brewers may not always sign the biggest free agents or retain superstar players, they have been savvy in their decisions, which has led to their current success.
As of the time of Votto's comments, the Brewers were enjoying a strong season, boasting the best record in Major League Baseball. This success is a testament to the hard work of the front office and the players, who have managed to keep the team competitive even after the departure of former general manager David Stearns. Votto expressed his hope that the Brewers would continue their success and potentially make a deep playoff run this season.
Votto, who spent his entire 17-year Major League Baseball career with the Cincinnati Reds, is now an analyst on MLB Network and NBC Sports. His impressive career includes 2,135 hits, 356 home runs, and 1,144 RBIs, along with an OPS of .920. He was named the National League MVP in 2010 and earned six All-Star selections throughout his career. His insights into the game and the culture of baseball continue to resonate with fans and players alike, making his endorsement of the Brewers fanbase particularly noteworthy.
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