"When Joey Votto was told he had won the National League Most Valuable Player Award, his thoughts turned to his late father, Joseph, and the tears began to fall.

"Not to be dramatic or anything, but after I was told I won I couldn't help but cry because I knew how much something like this meant to me and would have meant to my father," Votto said. "It's an individual award, but it's such a great accomplishment. It's the pinnacle of all the awards. It's a great a moment.

"I have overcome a lot and I am very proud of myself."

Votto missed 31 games in 2009 with depression and anxiety issues stemming from the death of his father in 2008.

Votto missed no time with the issue this season.

"It was a huge step," he said. "I had a difficult time getting over the death of someone that close to me. 2009 was a difficult year. Last year was quite a bit less difficult. I'm making progress in my life."

Votto received 31 of 32 first-place votes to easily beat out two-time reigning MVP Albert Pujols for the award.

"It's pretty fricking awesome to beat Albert Pujols for the MVP Award," he said.

Votto meant that with utmost respect. When a questioner mentioned that the overwhelming vote indicated what a great year Votto had, Votto said:

"I don't like throwing the word 'great' around. Albert is the only great guy I would mention. There are only four or five great players in our game. That's not commentary on us. I just don't like using that word.

"Albert is a great player. Myself and Carlos (Gonzalez, who finished third) are learning how to be major leaguers and establish ourselves. I think Carlos would agree with that."

Votto became the 10th Red to win the National League Most Valuable Player Award. Votto is the first winner for the Reds since Barry Larkin won in 1995."