Reds’ Joey Votto makes fan’s day with signed baseball after first-inning ejection

And now, a wholesome baseball story.

Reds fans have an extra special connection with their team. A few times this year, that’s been pretty apparent, with the way Cincy fans have been selling out for home run balls all season.

Joey Votto’s chili was running hot on Saturday, leading to a first-inning ejection for arguing a check swing call. Young Reds fan Abigail was at her first MLB game in San Diego and was hoping to see Votto play more than just an inning. Unfortunately, she didn’t get the opportunity.

“@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….,” shared by Twitter User @SuperBarry11, presumably Abigail’s mother.

MORE: Shohei Ohtani will make history with his participation in 2021 Home Run Derby

Well, the Reds and Votto took notice and made sure Abigail’s first MLB game was a memorable one, even without Votto on the field. Votto delivered a nice signed baseball to Abigail, while the Reds are planning to send her some extra goodies from the game.

The ball reads — in typical Votto deadpan fashion, mind you — “I am sorry I didn’t play the entire game.”

Votto has made a career of being friendly — and having fun — with fans, so this is just another chapter in a long book of his awareness.

The Reds would drop the game 7-5 to the Padres, but at least young Abigail got a massive personal win of her own. All’s well that ends well.