Joey Votto: Playing in Field of Dreams game 'significant'

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto explained why the Field of Dreams game means a lot to him. Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

Reds 1B Joey Votto: Playing in Field of Dreams game a 'significant moment'

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/11/22

On Thursday, baseball magic returns to the cornfields of Iowa when the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds meet for the Field of Dreams Game.

MLB is back for another go-around in Dyersville after the success of last year's first incarnation, which saw the Chicago White Sox defeat the New York Yankees thanks to a walk-off two-run homer from shortstop Tim Anderson.

While the Field of Dreams game can quickly bring about nostalgia tied to one of baseball's most iconic movies, it has a deeper meaning for Reds veteran first baseman Joey Votto.

For Votto, one of the film's most memorable scenes, a catch between father and son, has had a particular impact since his father died more than 14 years ago.

Votto rewatched the movie ahead of Thursday's game and shared some of his thoughts with his Twitter followers.

Getting the opportunity to play a game at the mythical field that sowed the seeds of hope for a Major League Baseball career is a significant moment for me. Couple that with the father/son connection, and this game is an exceptional moment in my life.
— Joey Votto (@JoeyVotto) August 10, 2022

The 16-year veteran will also be mic'd up for Thursday's game, according to CBS Sports' Dayn Perry.

Votto and the Reds have struggled throughout the season, sitting in fourth place in the NL Central, sporting a 44-66 record. Although, Thursday's game should offer Votto and his teammates an escape.

While MLB has doubled down on the Field of Dreams game this season, the game will take a season off in 2023. The site is scheduled for construction this offseason to add youth baseball and softball facilities, which won't be completed in time for next season.

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