Ken Griffey Jr. has retired from Major League Baseball after more than two decades of amazingly steroid-free baseball.Okay, technically it was parts of four decades, considering he played in the 80's, 90's, 00's and 10's.
The 40-year-old Hall of Fame shoe-in has enjoyed 13 All-Star appearances, 10 Gold Gloves, seven Silver Slugger Awards, the 1997 MVP honor, and won the Home Run Derby on three different occasions.
Griffey spent his first ten seasons with the Seattle Mariners before joining the Cincinnati Reds from 2000-2008 and playing with the Chicago White Sox to end the season. He then returned to his rightful spot on Seattle's roster for his 21st and what has turned out to be his 22nd and final season.
All of that can't possibly top the fact he has starred in four Nintendo games, appeared on the Simpsons as well as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and had his very own candy bar for a while. Also, he sits at No. 5 on the All-Time Career Home Runs list with 630, behind Willie Mays, Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron and Barry Bonds. Not shabby company at all.
The Mariners designated hitter, who is sporting a .184 batting average this season with seven RBI and zero homers, did not report to Safeco Field for tonight's game against the Minnesota Twins.
Here is Junior's sad official statement:
I'm extremely thankful to have played so long. I'd like to thank my family for all the sacrifices they've made all these years. And I'd like to thank the Seattle Mariners for allowing me to finish my career where it started.[MLB Fanhouse] | [Lookout Landing] | [Seattle PI]
I told the Mariners when we met before the season, that I would never allow myself to be a distraction. My hope is that my teammates can win a championship for themselves and for deserving Seattle fans. I'd like to thank everyone who played a role in my career... zzzzzzzzzzz.
5 comments:
Happy golden years, Junior xoxo
"I'd like to thank everyone who played a role in my career... zzzzzzzzzzz."
HAHA!
LOL at the "zzzzzzz" at the end of the quote.
Griffey seems to be one of the good ones. Sad to see him go.
Ken Griffey, Jr. is a shining example of class in Major League Baseball. In today's world of PED and high-profile divorces, scandals, and bad behavior, he kept his head high and came through with one of the finest reputations and images in the games. We need more KGJs and less A-Roids.
Actually, Junior played for the White Sox the end of 2008, not last season. Junior played all of 2009 with the Mariners. They carried him off the field after the last game.
I love Junior. Thanks for playing!
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