Early Life and Family

Ken Griffey Jr., born on November 21, 1969, in Donora, Pennsylvania, grew up surrounded by baseball. His father, Ken Griffey Sr., was a Major League Baseball player, and young Ken often watched him play for the Cincinnati Reds. This early exposure to the sport helped Ken Jr. develop a deep love for baseball. The family later moved to Cincinnati, where Ken Jr. played high school baseball and became one of the top young players in the country.

Major League Debut and Rise to Fame

Ken Griffey Jr. was drafted first overall by the Seattle Mariners in 1987. Just two years later, in 1989, he made his debut in the major leagues at only 19 years old. His talent, energy, and enthusiasm quickly made him a fan favorite. Known for his smooth left-handed swing and incredible fielding in center field, Griffey earned the nickname “The Kid.” He hit for power and average, and his leaping catches over the outfield wall became highlights of the 1990s.

Achievements and Career Highlights

During his career, Griffey hit 630 home runs, placing him among the all-time leaders in Major League Baseball history. He was selected for 13 All-Star Games and won 10 Gold Glove Awards for his outstanding defense. In 1997, he was named the American League’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). Griffey played most of his career with the Seattle Mariners but also spent several seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, following in his father’s footsteps.

Later Career and Legacy

Griffey’s later years were marked by injuries, but he remained one of baseball’s most beloved players. He retired in 2010 and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016, receiving one of the highest voting percentages in history. Griffey is remembered not only for his talent but also for his joy and sportsmanship. His influence helped inspire a new generation of players, and his iconic backward cap look became part of baseball culture.

Discussion Questions

1. How did Ken Griffey Jr.’s family influence his baseball career?
2. What qualities made Griffey such a popular player among fans?
3. Why do you think Griffey’s style and attitude had such a big impact on the game?
4. How did Griffey’s accomplishments help shape modern baseball?

Glossary

Drafted: Chosen by a team to join a professional sports league.
MVP (Most Valuable Player): An award given to the best player in a season.
Gold Glove: An award given to players for outstanding fielding.
Hall of Fame: A place that honors the greatest players in a sport.
Outfield: The area of a baseball field farthest from the batter.

Five Interesting Facts

• Ken Griffey Jr. and his father hit back-to-back home runs in a 1990 game.
• He was the first overall pick in the 1987 MLB draft.
• Griffey’s 1997 season included 56 home runs, one of the best in history.
• He appeared in several video games and commercials during the 1990s.
• His number 24 was retired by the Seattle Mariners.

Timeline

• 1969 – Born in Donora, Pennsylvania.
• 1987 – Drafted first overall by the Seattle Mariners.
• 1989 – Made his Major League Baseball debut.
• 1997 – Named American League MVP.
• 2010 – Retired from professional baseball.
• 2016 – Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.