Griffey Jr. a Brave?! Could Happen Soon!

There are late-breaking reports that the Atlanta Braves have come on strong in the last day or so in trying to sign Ken Griffey Jr.

I know this is not the news-maker that it would have been seven or eight years ago, but it's still big in Bravesland.

Over the past week Griffey has been rumored to be close to signing with the Seattle Mariners. When reached for comment at the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am golf tournament today,  Griffey verified those reports were nothing more than a rumor. Griffey has also stated concerns about Seattle being too far from his Orlando home.

An anonymous source close to the slugger said that Griffey is "extremely" interested in playing for Atlanta. 

Atlanta's proximity to his home in Orlando is said to be a major selling point. That home is literally minutes from the Braves spring training headquarters at Walt Disney World.

Griffey has reportedly given the Braves reason to believe that he would have no trouble being in a platoon with Matt Diaz in left field.

The report also states that Griffey is good friends with Bobby Cox and has recently been speaking with members of the Braves.

There is reason to believe that this deal could be done during the early part of the week as the Braves and Griffey's representative have already been discussing numbers.

This could be a huge signing for the Braves and would definitely provide some left-handed pop against right-handed pitchers. Not to mention what his presence would bring to the clubhouse and to an excited fan base.

All I have to say: Get it done! I know Griffey is 39-years-old now, but the man can still play. He has some mileage, but his presence in the lineup could potentially be a difference maker for the Braves.

In 2008, Atlanta outfielders combined for 27 HR's. So there's no doubt that Griffey would be a welcomed addition.