I love Ken Griffey Jr. He was an amazing talent and he is the reason why MLB is still in Seattle – he built Safeco Field. Because of this, I overlook the fact that he demanded a trade with the Reds in which the M’s got no talent back because Griffey wouldn’t approve a trade that “crippled” the Reds.
I went to the first game Griffey was back in Seattle when he came back in 2007 as a Red. I bought tickets in right field, made a sign that said “Safeco, the House that Griffey Built.” It was an amazing dose of nostalgia. I’ll be there in Cooperstown when Griffey is elected into the HOF.
However, if Griffey signs, the M’s will have to make some very hard decisions. Griffey isn’t half the player he used to be and having him back for a full season will be like watching your parents get old. The Mariners will compromise their decision making because they will be bound to play Griffey over younger players that deserve playing time. Benching Griffey would be like taking the car keys away from your elderly parent. The Mariners must keep a good relationship with Griffey in order to have him wear their hat in Cooperstown.
Instead, the Mariners should just let Griffey sign with Atlanta. If both teams are out of the playoff chase in August, the Mariners should trade for Griffey and give him a 6-week victory lap. This will avoid the complications of orchestrating Griffey’s playing time among the youger players for a full year, and still let the Seattle fans see him one more time.