Former Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto has gifted a custom-built street clock to the city and the team, installed just in time for Opening Day at Great American Ball Park. The 16-foot-tall timepiece features Reds branding and chimes classic baseball tunes. Votto expressed excitement about enhancing the fan experience with the donation.
Cincinnati Reds officials announced on Tuesday that Joey Votto, who spent 17 seasons with the team from 2007 to 2023, donated a distinctive street clock to honor the organization and its fans. The clock stands 16 feet, 8 inches tall on Crosley Terrace outside the main entrance to Great American Ball Park, ready for Thursday's Opening Day at 4:10 p.m. ET. Crafted by local firm The Verdin Company, it sports red-and-white trim, 36-inch dials on all four sides bearing the wishbone 'C' logo, Roman numerals, and 'Cincinnati Reds' lettering. A hand-painted baseball tops the structure, while speakers chime hourly, including 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game.' At its base, a bronze plaque reads 'Thank you Cincinnati' above Votto's signature. “I am excited about giving the clock to the city, the team and its fans,” Votto said. “Being the oldest professional team, I wanted this clock to add to the charm and mystique of the Cincinnati Reds experience.” Reds president and CEO Phil Castellini praised the gesture: “We are incredibly grateful and honored to have this beautiful clock adorn the front gates. Joey made us proud every time he stepped onto the field. And this one-of-a-kind gift from him will continue to inspire and excite everyone who sees it.” The Verdin Company CEO Bob Verdin III noted Votto's hands-on role in its design. “He wanted his thank you gift to be a showstopper and we are thrilled with how it turned out.” Drafted by the Reds in the second round of 2002, Votto earned the 2010 National League MVP award, made six All-Star teams, and hit .294 with 356 home runs over 2,056 games, all in Cincinnati.
