Joey Votto (quad) took batting practice and fielded grounders at first base on Thursday. It sounds like Votto, who has been out since May 16 with a quad strain, may be nearing a minor league rehab assignment. "He looked strong," Reds manager Bryan Price said Thursday after watching Votto's workout. "Now, it's just matter of strength and getting out there and playing a little, making sure everything is where it needs to be before we activate him."