Votto helps old coach fight Parkinson's By Bob Elliott, QMI Agency

PHILADELPHIA - Joey Votto wasn’t looking for publicity.

He was simply trying to help out his former coach Steve Plumley battle Parkinson’s disease. Plumley coached Votto as a youngster in Etobicoke.

The Cincinnati Reds first baseman signed and personalized 60 photos, donating as a prize, an official Louisville Slugger bats which he autographed. Votto also sent a message to each participant: “With your pledge we move one step closer to finding a cure for Parkinson’s.”

Plumley organized a pledge drive where $401 for each Votto home run would go for Parkinson’s research.

Votto hit 29 homers raising $11,629.

“Joey is a proud Canadian who will never forget his sandlot roots, the mighty Bloordale Bombers,” said Plumley. “Joey is a free agent in 2014. Wouldn’t he look good in a Blue Jays uniform.”

Coming off his MVP year for the Reds, Votto hit .309, led the National League in doubles (40) knocked in 103 runs and had a .947 OPS for the third-place Reds.