RealGM

CINCINNATI -- As the realization took hold, Reds first baseman Joey Votto wasn't afraid to let the tears flow and the delight of the moment wash over him. On Monday, Votto learned that he was named the National League's Most Valuable Player for 2010.

"Not to be dramatic or anything -- after I was told, I couldn't help but cry because I know how much something like this meant to me and would have meant to my father," said Votto, who lost his father following his sudden death in August 2008.

In balloting that took place at the end of the regular season by the Baseball Writers' Association of America, Votto received 31 out of a possible 32 first-place votes and 443 points to earn his first MVP. It prevented Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols from winning his third consecutive MVP and fourth overall.