Reds’ Joey Votto becomes second Canadian in MLB history to reach 2,000 hits

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto has become just the second Canadian in MLB history to reach 2,000 career hits.

Votto, from Etobicoke, Ont., completed the feat during the seventh inning of Monday night’s game against the Chicago Cubs with a single into centre field. It was the second hit of the game for Votto, who notched No. 1,999 with a single in the third.

Only Hall of Fame inductee Larry Walker of Maple Ridge, B.C., has more major league hits among Canadians with 2,160 during his career.

“More than anything, to be done with a game and get a win and also to feel momentum toward something we’re collectively doing, and then to be a part of that with these individual milestones, is really pretty special,” Votto said after the Reds’ 14-5 victory over the Cubs.

The 37-year-old Votto is also the only player to have made his MLB debut in the 21st century with 2,000 hits and a .400 career on-base percentage.

With files from The Associated Press.