CINCINNATI -- It took more than 10 months for Joey Votto to return to the Cincinnati Reds because of multiple surgeries. Now he's joining a team that's a surprise contender in the NL Central.
The 39-year-old former MVP first baseman returned to the starting lineup from the 60-day injured list Monday, batting sixth for the Reds to open a three-game series with the Colorado Rockies.
Right-hander Hunter Greene (right hip pain) was placed on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to Sunday, in a corresponding move. Right-hander Kevin Herget was designated for assignment to open a spot for Votto on the 40-man roster.