Joey Votto is one of baseball's most patient hitters, but the Cincinnati Reds star has been swinging at a very high rate of pitches to begin the 2017 season.

Over the first week of the season, Votto has a 90.2% zone-swing rate. His career mark is just 68.5%.

Votto may be swinging more often on purpose in an effort to put the ball in play. When asked, Votto was secretive.

"You're asking me about my approach and my tactics," he said. "That's kind of personal. I wouldn't want to share the specifics when that could benefit the opposition."

Votto gifted assistant hitting coach Tony Jaramillo with a "P Double-i P" shirt, which translate to "Put It In Play," which may be a hint towards his differing approach.