Reds’ Votto passes on Home Run Derby

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto ranks second in the National League with 23 home runs, but he will not participate in the Home Run Derby on July 10 in Miami, Fla.

“I was asked by Major League Baseball, and I passed,” Votto said Sunday. “I passed because it’s a style of hitting that I never do. I’ve played every game thus far this season, and I’m concerned about two things. I’m concerned about potentially getting injured, and I’m concerned about not being able to do my very best if I can sense an injury. It’s a challenging event. It’s something that I’d rather save for the field and during the games.”