CINCINNATI — First baseman Joey Votto had a full workout on Friday, suggesting he’s close to rejoining the Cincinnati Reds.

Votto took ground balls on the field as part of his workout before the start of a series against the St. Louis Cardinals. He’s had two operations since July 17 to repair torn cartilage in his left knee.

Votto was close to returning this month, but re-injured the knee while practicing sliding. He had another procedure on Aug. 10.

There have been no setbacks during his second round of rehabilitation.

“I’ve come a long way and I feel I’m not too far off,” Votto said. “I can’t really put a day on it. I don’t think it’s going to be too much longer.”

The Reds have thrived since Votto got hurt, going 26-12 with a seven-game lead over second-place St. Louis in the NL Central heading into their series.

The 2010 National League MVP was batting .342 with 14 homers and 49 RBIs when he got hurt,.