Joey Votto’s first spring hit is a homer, Reds beat Brewers 3-1

Votto homers, Reds beat Brewers 3-1

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — Joey Votto homered for his first hit of spring training, leading the Cincinnati Reds to a 3-1 victory over a Milwaukee Brewers split-squad on Thursday.

Votto hit a solo shot off left-hander Chris Capuano, who is trying to resume his career after reconstructive elbow surgery. Votto was 0 for 9 before he homered in the sixth inning.

Capuano gave up a pair of runs, three hits and two walks in 2 1-3 innings, including an RBI triple by Chris Dickerson. The 31-year-old Capuano missed the last two seasons because of elbow problems.

Reds right-hander Johnny Cueto pitched three scoreless innings, a big improvement over his first spring outing.