Votto aims to improve after 'frustrating' 2018

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Even before the Reds underscored their determination to improve by making major offseason acquisitions for the club, first baseman Joey Votto was already working to improve his hitting and his overall game.

"I'm ready to work. I'm excited," Votto said on Sunday as he reported to Spring Training with the other position players. "I think last year was a frustrating year and I'm looking forward to proving to myself that isn't the sort of level I expect. I expect a better performance."

Votto, 35, lamented the big drop off he had in 2018. Following a near-MVP season in 2017 when he hit .320 with 36 home runs, he batted .284/.417/.419 with 12 home runs and 67 RBIs in 145 games…