Votto's latest adventure takes him to Bikini Bottom

CINCINNATI -- Are you ready kids? Reds first baseman Joey Votto is taking his talents to Bikini Bottom.

The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati announced that Votto is lending his voice to their upcoming production of "The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition." He will be heard as "The French Narrator" during the show -- marking the first time a Reds player has taken part in a Children's Theatre production in the city.

“I was asked to do it. I don’t know if it went well or not," Votto said. "I speak French, so I can fake it. They said it went well, which is really all that matters.”

Votto's lines were already pre-recorded for the show, which is scheduled to run at the Taft Theatre from Oct. 14-23. As the "French Narrator," he will be introducing the audience to the world that is Bikini Bottom.

“I don’t imagine they’ll recognize my voice, because I sounded so on point. I could not have sounded more like a French narrator," Votto joked.

Votto, 40, has been in the big leagues for the Reds since 2007 and is a six-time All-Star and was the 2010 National League Most Valuable Player. He has repeatedly connected with the community via charitable efforts, Cincinnati Children's Hospital visits and often leaves game-used memorabilia around town for fans to find via clues he provides on social media.

"The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition" is a 60-minute live adaptation of the iconic animated Nickelodeon series, "SpongeBob SquarePants." The story involves a volcano that threatens Bikini Bottom, with SpongeBob and the gang demonstrating that the power of optimism really can save the world.

“I hope the kids have a good time," Votto said. "I was happy to lend my voice.”