The Future of One of the Games Best

There is no doubt that his final stop will be in Cooperstown as one of the best that has ever played the game. The only question is, where will Ken Griffey Jr. plays next year?

A lot of people think that the Cincinnati Reds are going to trade him before the trade deadline this year. I personally think that he will remain a Red for the remainder of the year and then become a free agent.

One main reason the Reds will not trade him is because nobody will be able to afford what the Reds will want in return. As good as Griffey may be, he is not worth good young talent unless you can guarantee that you will be able to sign him back following the season. The Reds would most likely want young pitching in return, and most teams do not have any pitching that they are just willing to give up.

That means one of the games best hitters will be free game for any and all teams to obtain his services in the off-season. There are two teams that could really use his help and are able to afford him. Those teams are the Seattle Mainers (his first team he played for) or the New York Yankees.  Both teams could use a solid corner outfielder or a designated hitter, a more likely position for Griffey to play.

The Yankees would be the front runner for a few reasons. One is the fact that they are contends for the playoffs every year.  And making the playoffs is very important to Griffey, winning a World Series is one thing that he has not done in his long great career.  Another reason is because the Yankees will be able to throw as much money as he wants.

The Yankees do have some big contracts that are about to come off their books at the end of the year.  The main two that could affect Griffey coming to New York are the contracts of Jason Giambi and Bobby Abreu. Abreu’s contract ends after the year and the team has an option on Giambi’s contract.  If the team does not resign them or only signs one of them, it then opens the door for Griffey. 

Playing DH may be just what Griffey wants. It will not take as much of a toll on his body like playing the outfield.  He would be able to prolong his playing career and just maybe reach 700 home runs for his career. That would make him the fourth to do so.

If he came to New York, he could also help mentor a young team and add that spark that they have been missing since the retirement of Paul O’Neil.  He would also be giving the chance to play everyday for one of the most storied franchise in sports history.

With all that said, teams will have a big decision coming up. You either trade for him or hope you can sign him back or not give up a lot to get him. Or wait till he becomes a free agent to sign one of the best in they game.