New Blue Jay Joey Votto on his health: 'I feel excellent. I feel pain-free'

Joey Votto played less than half of the Cincinnati Reds' games the past two seasons because of biceps, rotator cuff and shoulder injuries.

So how is the 40-year-old feeling now that he's a member of his hometown Toronto Blue Jays?

Better than fine, he told The Athletic's C. Trent Rosecrans and Kaitlyn McGrath in a text message after signing a minor-league contract with the Blue Jays on Friday.

“I feel excellent. I am pain-free. It is a joy,” Votto said.

“I think I can still bang.”

Votto says he feels like he has something to prove after being unsigned for the first chunk of spring training.

The Reds bought out the final year of his contract in November.

“I am grateful that I am in tryout mode right now,” Votto said. “This reminds me of when I was 18, flying down to Sarasota, Florida, to showcase and develop my skills as a new Cincinnati Red.”

While Votto still has to make the team, his goal is to be part of a World Series run.

“I have no expectations,” Votto said. “I want to be a useful member of the roster that can bring a championship back to Toronto.”