When the Reds acquired Ken Griffey Jr in the winter of 2000 it appeared to be a great move. Griffey was the best player in the game (arguably) and was returning to his hometown. Griffey was a complete 5 tool player when he arrived in Cincy. The issues then began...
Griffey began to get injured at an alarming rate. Reds fans gasped as they continued to see Griffey go down with leg injuries while attempting to catch balls in the outfield, or round the bases in an aggressive manner. Many Reds fans became upset and blamed the injuries on Griffey being out of shape. The real reason I think Reds fans became upset was because of the expections Griffey arrived with.
Reds fans and Griffey had become tired of each other. The Reds wanted to keep Griffey for him to hit 600 HR in the Reds uniform, and continue to bring fans into the park as the Reds floundered.
The Reds then decided to deal Griffey to the White Sox...as much for themselves as for Ken Griffey Jr. It gives Griffey the chance to be in the thick of a pennant race, and possibly in contention for a WS crown. It was a bittersweet departure for both Griffey and the Reds fans (at least this one).
Tonight Griffey arrived to the White Sox in style with a rocket to center to knock in a run, and a dribbler through the right side to knock in another run. He also had 'warning track power' on another pitch and drew a walk in his final AB. It is yet to be seen if Griffey can continue to play CF everyday and be consistent at the plate. This is not the Griffey of the late 1990's...but the swing is still sweet.
I can only wish Griffey the best on the White Sox...and root for them, and Griffey to be successful.
