CINCINNATI, April 4 (UPI) -- The Cincinnati Reds announced Wednesday they have signed first baseman Joey Votto to a 10-year contract, reported to be one of the most lucrative in history.
Reds General Manager Walt Jocketty didn't disclose the terms of the deal, but USA Today reported it was worth $225 million, which would make it the fourth-largest ever in the annals of professional sports.
The new contract, which includes a no-trade clause, will kick in at the conclusion of the Canadian slugger's current three-year contract, which he signed in January 2011.
The club also has an option for 2024.
"We recognize the historical significance of this signing. Ownership has committed to Joey, and we anticipate that he will continue to be one of the best players in baseball for the next decade or so," Jocketty said.
"He wants to stay here, and we want him here. We have shown we are committed to building a solid foundation from within the organization."
Votto batted .309 with 29 home runs and 103 runs batted in last season.
The 2010 National League Most Valuable Player has compiled a .313 batting average during his five years with the Reds, belting 119 home runs with 401 RBI during the span.
