Griffey Gone but Not for Long
As a Cincinnati Reds fan my entire life and a lifetime Ken Griffey Jr. fan, I have to say I always loved the way the dude would hustle. Graced with some of the greatest baseball talent our world has ever seen, it was his hustle that made him truly great. And don’t even get me started on his swing. If anyone can name a player with a more fluid, smooth swing, I will write a 1,000 word essay on why you are smarter than I.
Instead of wasting ink on what I have to say about the guy, I thought a collection of opinions would be more appropriate. Below are some of the articles I thought really put Griff in good light:
Todd Dybas of Seattle Pi wrote: “Pre-Internet, Griffey supplied enough highlights to enter into the thoughts of young kids in suburbia, minorities in inner cities and those throwing through a hanging tire in small towns.” Read more here.
Greg Johns of Seattle Pi wrote: “This wasn’t like the old days, when Griffey balanced baseball and family like any parent juggling the desire to be with his kids with the duty of earning a living and the self-satisfaction that comes with any career.” Read more here.
Percy Allen of The Seattle Times wrote: “Emotions ran the gamut for many Mariners fans who learned Ken Griffey Jr. retired as they walked into Safeco Field. They were surprised, saddened, relieved and even excited about life without The Kid.” Read more here.
Bill Koch of The Cincinnati Enquirer wrote: “Griffey left the game with no fanfare and without speaking to reporters. He simply issued a statement that he was retiring because he didn’t want it to be a distraction to his team.” Read more here.
Although Griffey is leaving the playing field, reports say that he will return to the Mariners in a different capacity. According to the Associated Press, Griffey will be back with Seattle in the near future working with the team in a long-term job to be determined.
Whatever Griffey decides he wants to do post-baseball – whether it’s to spend more time with his family or work in the Mariners front office or even coach – I wish him nothing but the best. He is, without a doubt, one of the greatest players to ever play the game and the best player I’ve ever seen play with my own eyes.
What do you think about Griffey’s decision?
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Thank you, Joe. I appreciate the compliment. Let me know if you ever see anything that needs improvement. I would love any critiques you may have.