CINCINNATI — It’s time.
That has been the theme adopted by skipper Terry Francona that he wants his team to adopt one year after advancing to postseason for the first time in five seasons. Joey Votto, even in early retirement, knows how to make a timely statement.
The former all-star first baseman and franchise icon has gifted the City of Cincinnati, the Reds and the fans a custom-built Verdin street clock as a thank you for their support during Votto’s 22 years with the Reds organization.
“I am excited about giving the Clock to the city, the team and its fans,” said Votto. “Being the oldest professional team, I wanted this Clock to add to the charm and mystique of the Cincinnati Reds experience.”
Crafted by Cincinnati’s The Verdin Company, the Clock stands 16 feet, 8 inches tall with four 36‑inch dials, and is located on Crosley Terrace, just outside the main ballpark entrance.
“We are incredibly grateful and honored to have this beautiful Clock adorn the front gates,” said Reds President and CEO Phil Castellini. “Joey made us proud every time he stepped onto the field. And this one-of-a-kind gift from him will continue to inspire and excite everyone who sees it.”
The Clock is finished in the official Reds Pantone red with white trim. The top finial is hand‑painted to resemble a baseball, and each Clock face includes “Cincinnati” across the top and “Reds” along the bottom. The faces feature Roman numerals and the iconic Reds wishbone “C” centered on each dial.
“There will continue to be massive moments happening at the ballpark in the future, and people making new memories,” Votto said. “I hope that I can still be part of it in some way, knowing the Clock adds character to this special place.”
Additionally, the clock head features speakers that can play hourly chimes and a wide range of music, including Take Me Out to the Ballgame.
“Joey wanted the Clock to enhance our shared love of baseball, so we are collaborating with Joey and Verdin for fun ways to integrate it into our games,” said Castellini.
At the base of the Clock, a bronze plaque honors Votto’s contribution. The plaque reads: “Thank you Cincinnati” with Joey Votto’s signature underneath it.
“Joey was involved in planning every detail. He wanted his thank you gift to be a showstopper and we are thrilled with how it turned out,” said The Verdin Company CEO Bob Verdin III.
Joey Votto was drafted by the Reds in 2002 and spent his entire 17-year Major League career with the Reds (2007-2023), earning six All-Star appearances and the 2010 National League Most Valuable Player Award, among numerous other awards and honors.
The Verdin Company, founded in 1842, is a six-generation family-owned business and the oldest family-owned business in Ohio. Verdin is the premier supplier of bells, carillons, clocks and towers with more than 60,000 installations worldwide. In a field that requires highly specialized skills, the Verdin family passes their knowledge to the next generation and the artisans who work for them. The sixth generation leads the company with old-world craftmanship, modern technology and innovation. Verdin post Clocks have been recognized for their craftmanship, longevity, elegance and are focal points on some of the finest streets, golf courses and universities in America. They are also the only post clocks awarded U.L. Listing #863 as a timekeeping device.
