Lost in the exciting news of the contract extension for one Joey Votto was the announcement of the Cincinnati Reds’ opening day roster.

The rotation: Johnny Cueto, Mat Latos, Bronson Arroyo, Mike Leake and Homer Bailey.

The bullpen: Chapman, Sean Marshall, Sam LeCure, Bill Bray, Logan Ondrusek, Jose Arredondo.

The catchers: Devin Mesoraco, Ryan Hanigan.

The infielders: Joey Votto, Brandon Phillips, Zack Cozart, Scott Rolen, Miguel Cairo, Wilson Valdez, Todd Frazier, Willie Harris.

The outfielders: Jay Bruce, Drew Stubbs, Ryan Ludwick, Chris Heisey.

The surprise, I think, is that the team will be starting the season with just 11 pitchers instead of the expected 12. This is due to an early off day, after which the team has said they’ll make another decision.

But there you have it, your 2012 Cincinnati Reds. I look forward to seeing them in person for my first Opening Day on Thursday.

Whoa! This is big, giant, wonderful news that’s come entirely out of nowhere!

Joey Votto and the Reds are close to a long-term contract extension. Votto confirmed a report by mlbtraderumors.com.

“I can’t comment till it’s done,” he said. “You’ll have to ask Walt (Jocketty). It’s a gray area. I’ll be much more forthcoming later.”

So the MLB trade rumor site broke the story, but honest-to-goodness, legitimate journalists and Joey Votto have confirmed that the deal is in the works.

This and Opening Day is on Thursday? It’s shaping up to be an excellent start to the season.