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Hall of Fame baseball writer Hal McCoy is in his 36th year of covering the Cincinnati Reds, the longest tenure for any active writer covering one team. Counting spring training and postseason games, McCoy has covered more than 7,000 major-league baseball games, written close to 18,000 baseball stories and eaten enough hot dogs to give Babe Ruth indigestion.Home > Blogs > The Real McCoy | Cincinnati Reds baseball news > Archives > 2008 > July > 31 > Entry
Jocketty: No to Griffey’s option
General manager Walt Jocketty said the Cincinnati Reds were not going to pick up Ken Griffey Jr.’s option for next year, so when the Chicago White Sox came calling Wednesday - out of the blue - he seized the opportunity.
“The White Sox didn’t call me until Wednesday afternoon and there had been no contact before then,” said Jocketty. “Surprised? Yes, I was.”
The deal unfolded rapidly and was not agreed upon until after Wednesday’s game in Houston, “Then Kenny Williams (Chicago GM) and I both had to get in contact with our owners for approval, then I had to sit down with Griffey and make the proposal.”
Jocketty said he received no potential roadblock from owner Bob Castellini and Jocketty said, “He was supportive and said whatever I thought was best in the short term and the long term. We received a couple of players we can control for a years years. We are retooling.”
Asked if this was a signal of things to come, Jocketty said, “That would be right. Ken Griffey Jr. was a big part of this franchise, but we are beginning a new era to build a long-term winner. We’re building a young team and this trade supplements us with a couple of young players.”
Does the future include Adam Dunn, who was not traded.
“We’re going to call Jerry Hairston Jr. back early from rehab (Friday) and he’ll play center field. We’ll move Jay Bruce to right and have Dunn in left,” said Jocketty. “My best answer is this gives us an opportunity to look at what the future might be.”
With 12 free agents, including marketable pitchers like Jeremy Affeldt and David Weathers, some though the Reds might do more.
“We had a couple of other things we could have done, but we chose not to do them because we didn’t think they would benefit us in the long run,” said Jocketty.
Jocketty said he though Griffey was a bit surprised when told he was traded and added, “I saw a very talented player in Griffey. The fans of Cincinnati had a Hall of Fame player who has had a distinguished career and hit 600 home runs. Fans saw Wednesday (Griffey homered) that he is still a force and he’ll help the White Sox a lot.
“The White Sox needed another bat and an outfielder, plus Kenny Williams has had interest in Griffey in the past,” said Jocketty. “And we were not going to pick up his ($16 million) option for next year.”
Asked if Griffey’s problem with broadcaster Jeff Brantley hastened the trade, Jocketty said, “No, absolutely not.”
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Comments
By helene moskovitz
August 9, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
i would like to know if patterson (cinti reds)is married to dusty baker’s daughter. it’s a rumor that hs been making the rounds here in cinti. please let me know. sounds like it may be true. thanks for response.By bart
August 1, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
Why don’t you people get a life?By Matt
August 1, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Looks like a fine lineup to me.By Y-City Jim
August 1, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
The line-up tonight is as expected: Jerry Hairston Jr. cf, Jeff Keppinger ss, Jay Bruce rf, Brandon Phillips 2b, Adam Dunn lf, Edwin Encarnacion 3b, Andy Phillips 1b, David Ross c, Homer Bailey p. Dusty makes it out according the position the player plays not how they are hitting.By Mike
August 1, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Accoring to Baker and out of “respect”.. Griffey batted 3rd with the Reds regardless of what numbers he had. He could have been hitting.199 and Baker would not have moved him. It was #3 with indelible ink. With the Sox,there is a crowd to be sure. Low in the order,that’s where he belongs.By sun deck lover
August 1, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Still mind boggling how Patterson is playing MLB. We all know that he was Dusty’s guy and only reason Krivsky paid $3.5 mil because he was told to. New rumor is that CP is engaged to Baker’s daughter?? If true-can’t ever complain about his in-laws!By Mr. Baseball
August 1, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Mr. Baseball thinks that the trading of Junior and the return of Hairston should undermine the logic of alternating lefty and righty batters in the lineup. The best day-to-day lineup right now would probably be: Hairston CF; Keppinger SS; Phillips 2B; Dunn LF; Votto 1B; Encarnacion 3B; Bruce RF; Ross/Bako C. That means three righties followed by two lefties, something that goes against the grain of Dustry’s logic so far this season. If Dusty sticks with the alternating strategy, look for something like this: Hairston, Bruce, Phillips, Dunn, Encarnacion, Votto, Keppinger, Ross/Bako. Mr. Baseball thinks that the first lineup is much better. In fact, down the road, it would not be bad to see a left-handed “murderers’ row” of Dunn, Votto, and Bruce to face right-handed pitching. Starting tonight, we’ll see how wedded Dusty is to the strategy of alternating lefties and righties vs. putting the best lineup on the field. Mr. Baseball also thinks that Dusty will start finding ways to insert Cabrera in the lineup at SS, 3B, or corner outfield positions.By Jack
August 1, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Mike, lets not forget that the White Sox have Quentin (leading AL in HR), Dye, Thome, AJ, Konerko, Swisher in the line-up. A lot easier to move him down in that line-up…compared to the Reds. Even though his average was down, he was still, third (?) on the team in RBI’s, up there in HR. Based upon numbers, he should have batted 3,4,5.By Mike
August 1, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Griffey will bat 6 or 7 tonight..where he should have been with the Reds..Baker didn’t have it to bat him at 6 or 7 and Griffey didn’t have the class to move down on his own.By Steve
August 1, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
I am happy Jr. got the chance to play in meaningful games again. He will be appreciated in Chicago. He still has a beautiful swing. I think he will start having fun again. He will be missed (not by all, obviously). I remember how I felt when he signed with us. WOW. I could not argee more with sun deck. I do, however, have a fear that Hairston will not stay healthy. That can only mean more CP. At least Dusty would be happy to have his guy leading off again (as Baker loves his speed). Speed is pretty much nuetralized when you can’t get on base. I am excited to see what will take place in the next week or two. They play respectable baseball and I will be happy.By Matt
August 1, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
I am moved on, jsc. Nick, I appreciate your spirit. You seem like a knowledgeable Reds fan who knows his stuff, and I always enjoy reading your posts. I’m not trying to be a know-it-all or whatever else, but this is what I heard about the Ken Griffey Jr. stuff around the ballpark. The Reds are still working on removing all of it from the ballpark, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. According to CE, the one item the Reds are going to leave alone is the 40 foot poster outside the entrance of the ballpark that bears the likeness of Griffey with the 600 home run emblem on it. From what it sounded like, everything else is coming down. I would hope that the Reds do something to honor Griffey in the future, be it the Reds Hall of Fame or another type of ceremony. I think he has definitely earned that during his time with the Reds.By jsc139
August 1, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
M — Even your consolation speech is wrought with politics and self defense. Can’t you just do what you say you’re going to do (in the SAME breath), take a bow and move on? If nothing changes, nothing changes.By Mike-Cinci
August 1, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
Right now I like Phillips 3rd, Dunn 4th, Votto 5th, EE 6th, Bruce 7th. Votto seems to hit lefties pretty good. I might flip Votto and EE when a lefty starts. Eventually Votto, EE, and Bruce will sort out who bats where by who hits. The Nats have lost 9 straight. Thet are due to beat somebody. Bowden has to be fired at the end of the season.By Nick w
August 1, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
im not gonna talk about matt im gonna talk about baseball. I think a very intersting topic was brought up, in between the matt comments, about griffey in the reds hall of fame. Im not sure what they are gonna do but if u look back he hit his 400, 500, and 600th homerun as a red, not to many teams can say they had a player hit 3 big milestone home runs. So i think it will be intersting to see years down the road if they put him in the reds hall.Micheal u bring up a good point about griff and eric davis, eric davis won and giffey didn’t here. Do u think we would be talking about this if the reds won a world series or even had a couple winning season and made the playoffs with griffey? i don’t think so and that is why so many fans hate griffey cus the reds didn’t win. Also what are they gonna do with the big sign in front of the stadium honoring griffey’s 600 homerun and the sign on the right field wall are they gonna do what the giants did with bonds and get rid of everything.By Matt
August 1, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
I agree with everyone that it is time to move on from the immaturity and nonsense. That is what I have been saying and keep on saying. As far as my “hero” being Junior, let me just clear that up please. A hero is not a baseball player. A hero is a soldier that is fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan so that our country can be free. I happen to respect Griffey very much and he is my favorite Reds player. But he is not my “hero”. As far as the lineup sans Junior, here is my opinion as to what it should be: Hairston, CF Keppinger, SS B. Phillips, 2B Dunn, LF Encarnacion, 3B Bruce, RF Votto, 1B Ross/Bako/Valentin, CBy Coach
August 1, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
No Matt. What the simple fact is, people are tired of you taking on their opinions—every single time they disagree with something YOU feel is correct!THAT is why there have been problems on this blog. When you stop making it personal—as you did on your last blog—the problem will cease!By michael
August 1, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Jack, I like that lineup. I think Votto could hit third if he needed to, but I have thought Phillips should hit 3rd regularly since opening day.By Jack
August 1, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
While it would be fun…and easy to pile on Matt, he is not the only one who needs to stop posting for a bit. Any person who sits down and writes a poem about Matt, needs to get a life. You are not any better then Matt…at least he is talking about the Reds. And, Matt, you do not need to respond to every single post..skip over a few. You made mention that you were in high school several years ago…great, please grow up. If I had to guess, I would actually say you are probably closer to grade school then college. Anyway, anyone for some Reds talk. Essentially replacing Griffey with Hairston. I guess we shall see if small ball is better then large ball. What’s the thought on the line-up? It can go a few ways, but, what about Hairston, Kepp, Phillips, Dunn, EE, Votto, Bruce, Catcher. Wouldnt want to put Bruce in three hole just yet. Thoughts?By michael
August 1, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
Eric Davis was a big part of a winning team, and he hustled. He stole a lot of bases, played hurt, and made big plays when they counted. Griffey may have had a better Career, but ED meant more to the Reds than Griffey ever will. Griffey is a legend that belongs in Cooperstown, but I don’t think Griffey belongs in the Reds hall of fame. Bt, if you put Cesar Geronimo in there, then you have to enshrine Griffey!By Paul
August 1, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
Leave Matt alone I don’y see what the problem is you all must be a bunch of haters. He has hero and maybe that was naive but all you all who think JR has been the cause of the Reds problems are the Naive onesBy Mark in Sun Valley
August 1, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
I wonder how the people who think Griffey gave nothing to the Reds feel about Eric Davis. In a nearly identical number of seasons and games, They are virtualy mirror images of each other. Davis is beloved and a member of the Reds Hall of Fame. How will people act when Griffey is inducted in 3-4 year?By fan_from_afar
August 1, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
ugh. this is getting pretty tiresome. Matt, I’m pretty neutral on you, but it seems you have this insatiable NEED to be right, and that is what gets you in trouble. And honestly, after defending Griffey even during a sub-par season like this year and then composing two short essays on 1.) what a great player/guy his is and 2.) How completely star-struck you were to meet him and spend time with him…. well for someone to say “i knew he had a man-crush of Griff!” is honestly pretty harmless and really should almost even be expected.By Mark in Sun Valley
August 1, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
I wonder how the people who think Griffey gave nothing to the Reds feel about Eric Davis. In a nearly identical number of seasons and games, They are virtualy mirror images of each other. Davis is beloved and a member of the Reds Hall of Fame. How will people act when Griffey is inducted in 3-4 year?By Matt
August 1, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
I agree, Kyle. I want this blog to stay about the Reds, and everything related to Reds baseball. Unfortunately, some people have taken this blog to a low level, with name-calling and petty childishness as their main focus.By Kyle
August 1, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
It would be nice if the comments on this blog were still about the Reds. Wake up, people. You aren’t that important.By Roho Radio
August 1, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Sun Deck Lover: I couldn’t have said it better myself. Two great posts and what this blog was meant for. Unfortunately, I expected the rest, too. Matt’s eulogy to Jr.(which was nice but unnecessary), and the subsequent thrashing that would ensue.By Matt
August 1, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
Bullcrap. I’m not going to sit here and be bullied into not posting on here. It’s ridiculous, and it’s bullcrap. If a person who is rational and has a brain can’t look at the endless barrage of attacks that I’ve endured on here and find out who the ones who to blame are, then I don’t know what to say. I don’t subscribe to the hate-Griffey, hate-Baker, hate-Dunn club. If that makes me “delusional” or an “egomaniac” in someone’s book, so be it. I don’t see the need to defend myself any more than I already have. Read the posts, quit kissing the three Musketeers’ hind ends, and realize what is really going on here. I’m entitled to my opinions, and I’ll keep making them known, regardless of what bully doesn’t like it.By Brarhopper
August 1, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
Looks like the self-appointed lightning rod is in full whine mode now. You’ve truly brought it on yourself, sonny. Feedback time!By jsc139
August 1, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
It’s because you’ve needlessly appointed yourself the center of the storm, Officer Matt.By George
August 1, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
All of it is rediculous—and Matt has been the reason for it.By Dave D
August 1, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Matt,, you’ve just proven Mr. Bradley’s point even better than he did!By Matt
August 1, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
James Bradley, have you even read the posts on here? Your sitting here blaming things on me that are not my fault! How can you read the post such as the one that “poetbutdontknowit” just wrote and sit here and tell me I’m the problem? What rational person can do that? Are you ignoring who is to blame for the drama on here or do you just not care? I respect this blog, and I am here to talk about Reds baseball, period. Others on this blog (such as Wizard, brarhopper and Huber) have disintegrated this blog into an attack forum ,and a smear machine. If I don’t agree with the lampoon opinions of our anointed ones (the aforementioned crew), then that means that I am childish, an idiot, or whatever other vile name that’s been put on me on here? Wake up and read the posts!! I’m here to discuss Reds baseball. If your going to blame someone for the problems on here, blame the ones who deserve it. Get real!By Poetbutdontknowit
August 1, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
There was a little girlie type/who wrote on a blog—just to be right/Her name was Matt/All day long she just sat{by the computer} She claims to be from the service/A fact{?}that makes us all nervous/She’s 23 years old/But, in need of a scold/We wish she would have been Purvis/ Says she’ll soon be a peace officer/But, wait ‘till they discover, he’s a her/They won’t want her there/They’ll pull out their hair/ Thinking Matt was a he/They’ll run for the sea/When they find out out for sure/He’s a herBy James Bradley
August 1, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Why I’m outta here! I don’t post much on this blog, mainly just a reader. However, it’s time for me to say something. As usual, Matt has hogged the blog and ruined it for everyone. It is not all about YOU, Mr. Ego!!! Your incessant and rambling and defensive childishly brickbats have ruined this once fine format offered by Mr. McCoy and the DDN. It’s ridiculous that this blog has been reduced to a format for an insecure 23 year-old boy to throw his hissy fit tantrums. I’ve seen numerous times when others have gently tried to guide Matt away from his behavior and back on point and he simply will not listen. His behavior (actions and words) on here are like an incorrigible juvenile delinquent. It is certainly NOT why I have been a reader to come on here and read arguments that are non baseball. This blog is supposed to be a place to escape that kind of nonsense and engage in adult discussion. But a good 50% of what on here are Matt related or are posted by him. It’s disgusting. And those of us who’ve been reading Hal’s blog for a while are tired of this nonsense. I’m outta here until this is dealt with by higher authority. Matt, you’d drive a rat off a gut truck.By Ron Teeters
August 1, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
It is truely sad to see a once great player to just be average… Many fans got on Jr. because of his lack of hustle… this just came about because of his past where he sacraficed his body by playing all out and that caused the injuries which cut short his possible legendary status he could have held as HOME RUN KING. I will always be a Ken Griffey Jr. fan.. and I will miss him as a fan but I believe it was a trade that was good for him… and for the REDS… NOW lets see what the younger guys can do… we have all be begging for this… it is now… PLEASE no Patterson in the line up for quite some time…By sun deck lover
August 1, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
1st- I am not here to support Matt. Nor did I start any Griffey fan clubs (that would be tough) I am just tired of people calling him out as a cancer,attitude problem, lazy, etc. I am not defending his numbers. His time here has been a train wreck at best. He is not going to the Hall for anything he has done since 2000 other than the 600. But he has played the game the right way, apparently without drugs. He should be commended for that as a person, instead, he is attacked as a person.What kind of demented loser yells at and taunts your own teams centerfielder as he lays on the turf with a separated shoulder? As a player fine, his numbers are not what he came here for,but as Hal has stated time and time again and been criticized for, he is a good person. I am happy that he is somewhere else,with a contender, and we got yet another arm for him. The sad part is how his career has ended up for a person who has done so much for the game. He did for baseball what Tiger did for golf. looking back, it was not a good money investment. But how many of you would have honestly said that in Feb. of 2000 as he was coming off of a 48 hr 138 rbi season and signing for 60% of what he would have elsewhere? Check out Doc’s article in Enquierer. He sums it up well.It is time to move forward, and we have some really good arms for the 1st time in 18 years. I just think some people need to move on with respect and dignity.By Matt
August 1, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
You’re right, Police Chief. “Matt has a man-crush on Griffey” is brief. It’s also a bizarre, ignorant, untrue and childish comment. Michael, you should go back and read my post. I asked you several questions about Junior’s time in Cincinnati, and his accomplishments. It is beyond the pale to make such a ridiculous comment such as “Griffey did nothing with the Reds”, or that “Griffey did nothing to help the Reds”. It’s pure nonsense.By Steven Ross
August 1, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Matt wrote: Junior was one of the greatest to ever put a Reds uniform on, and he WILL be missed by most Reds fans. Honestly Matt, I doubt a majority of Reds fans will miss him one bit. He was NOT universally loved like nearly everyone on the Big Red Machine. Sad but true, Junior will be forgotten more than beloved. Now in Seattle, that’s a different tune but not in Cincinnati. You’re waxing poetic more to yourself than the masses.By michael
August 1, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Sun deck lover, you and Matt should talk. I am excited about Griffey leaving. No, not a racist (I think Phillips is the best all around player on the Reds), just a life long Reds fan who is forward looking and realizes that Griffey has been part of the problem and not part of the solution. He has done nothing to help the Reds. He has spent a lot of time out with injuries and taken a a lot of money. Do I hate him, No. But I don’t understand what people think he has done that is so great while in a Reds uniform.By PeterRabbit
August 1, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Damn. Matt must have doubled! Oh know, he’s multiplying.By sun deck lover
August 1, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Hubber- This is a sad time for many Reds and baseball fans. Unlike you, who grew up slobbering over the Big Klu, many of my generation(mid 70’s)have grown up with Jr. Though I agree that he had no business batting 3rd anymore, and it was time for him and the Reds to part ways,most of us BASEBALL fans would like to see him ride off gracefully into a sunset - as I’m sure you enjoyed watching Bench do as he homered on his big day. Unfortunately, he was ridden out of town by a bunch of racist, stick in the mud fans. Before I go further, let me state that I am a white, middle class season ticket holder that lives an hour and 30 minutes north east of Columbus, and have been to more games and ballparks than most people have seen on TV. Griffey never had a chance for success in Cincy beyond the moron fans. He played on some of the worst teams in 20 years. Don’t blame him, blame Jim Bowden whose idea of starting pitching is claiming waiver players that were once decent, but who have suffered some sort of major injury, and signing them to long term deals because they once won 15 games(which is a useless stat that he has always lived by). If you don’t believe that it is his fault, look at the Nationals. He has managed to reaquire every player that he lost with before-seriously,look at the roster. I really don’t understand why Griffey is trashed as a player for being lazy. He is almost 40 and he is slow, not lazy. This should be expected with major leg injuries. You should try tearing your hamstring off the bone and running out some routine grounders and strech for the bag. He went through rehab for 2 injuries that were career ending severity. He obviously doesn’t need the money (still got paid for all the time he missed) so why would someone put themselves through all of that 8 hours a day rehab? My gosh, they might actually like playing and want to win. He has made his share of mistakes, but he is far from being a cancer. Ask any player,coach,or media guy in the game. I think you have him confused with Barry Bonds. Maybe his salary for a small market team was a cancer, but that is not his fault-blame management and yourselves. Cincinnati wouldn’t be a small market team if the so called greatest baseball fans would show up when they aren’t giving away bobbleheads or in a one game playoff. I agree that baseball (and every other sport) does not have any more Pete Roses. There have been alot of changes in the game. Some good (blogging and online coverage), some not so good (smaller ball parks,players being overpaid). However, just because you don’t show the emotion of a Sean Casey doesn’t mean you don’t have it.I did enjoy your wet behind the ears comment though- it just shows your age.By Police Chief
August 1, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
One thing Wizard, Brarhopper and Huber are that you are not: They are brief in their comments—you ramble on forever—and it is boring! Try being brief, you’ll like it, and so will we!Otherwise, I may have to come get you and lock your butt up!By Matt
August 1, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
MY stupidity, Police Chief? And what gives Huber, Wizard and brarhopper the right to call me or anyone else stupid? Are they geniuses? Are they really? With their talk about how Griffey is terrible, Dusty Baker is terrible, and how awful Dunn is, I don’t think so. I have just as much of a right to post my opinions here as they do, sir. And I have had my share of supporters as well. If the three Musketeers want to revel and rejoice in their ignorance about Reds baseball, then they should go elsewhere. Because I will continue to make my points on this blog, regardless. As I’ve said many times before, sir, the issue is not how many times someone posts on this or any other blog, it is what they have to say that counts. The “blog-hogs” are the ones who post hate-Matt poems. The “blog-hogs” are the ones who post their hate-Griffey, hate-Dusty diatribes. Those folks know nothing about the Reds, and it shows on a daily basis.By Matt
August 1, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
Michael, I must say that your comment about Griffey is simply untrue and not the cas eat all. What did Griffey do for the Reds? Do I have to go through each walk-off home run or game-winning hit that he had? Or all his memorable home runs? Or the great moments, like home runs 400, 500, and 600? I could go on and on. Junior was one of the greatest to ever put a Reds uniform on, and he WILL be missed by most Reds fans.By Police Chief
August 1, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
It just seems that no matter what day, or what blog, I visit Matt the bloghog has found another way to alienate another blogger. Matt you talk too much. Find a life, before you ruin the blog and season. Many people on here point out your stupidity—most people in your situation would take that as food for thought and make some corrections—since it indicates you aren’t well-liked!Hello? I wrote you once before—you should have listened to my wisdom.By Y-City Jim
August 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
Shouldn’t they know how to play fundamental baseball (such as bunting skills) before reaching the MLB roster? May it is the minors and the scouts that needs the clean-up job.By AJ
August 1, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this
About time we clean house Griffey next Patterson and Baker we need someboby that can coach and back to basic baseball like a bunt etc.By AJ
August 1, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
About time we clean house Griffey next Patterson and Baker we need someboby that can coach and back to basic baseball like a bunt etc.By Steven Ross
August 1, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
Deb wrote: This Reds fan will miss seeing you in the line up…speak for yourself Deb, I won’t miss him at all. Not seeing Dusty put him the in the 3-slot makes us better. Trust me, Griffey won’t be missed.By Tyler
August 1, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this
Griffey was a special special player who we will always remember for the amazing talen he was and the player he could have been. I still remember the joy and excitement felt on the day he first came to the Reds. It truly was as if Michael Jordan had come to the Reds, but things just didn’t work out the way they were planned and thats nobody’s fault. But to hear people say that now we have no reason to watch the reds is completly ludacris. Instead of mourning what could have been we need to look at what will be. We have future studs right now in Bruce, Votto, and Burton. We have a budding superstar second baseman in Brandon Phillips who is one of the more underappreciated guys in the league. And guess what Reds fans? For the first time since I was a toddler (1990), we have legit pitching staff for the future. So on this day instead of crying over why the Junior trade never worked out the way we planned, we need to look toward the future which is a TEAM that can bring respect back to CincinnatiBy michael
August 1, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
Let it go Matt. Griffey did nothing for the Reds. It amazes me to read comments from the bleeding heart Griffey fans. He WAS great with seattle, but what did he do for our team? We have been in the basement the entire time he was here! Nobody blames him directly, but to keep him in the 3 hole just because he is THE Great JR was ridiculous. Lets bring back Rose and Bench and put them in the lineup everyday. They were great at one point in their careers too!By Matt
August 1, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
“I was right all along-matt does have a man crush on griffey” The intelligent, thoughtful comments continue. That sounds like my 11 year old sister talking.By deb
August 1, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this
Best to Jr in Chicago - they are excited to get him and see him play!!! He is a true class act, & a man of character…..Best of luck to you - you deserve to be happy!!! This Reds fan will miss seeing you in the line up…..By BallFan
August 1, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this
Re; Huber Tuckey’s remark: Spoken like a true Hamilton County Republican.By BallFan
August 1, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this
Re; Huber Tuckey’s remark: Spoken like a true Hamilton County Republican.By BallFan
August 1, 2008 6:48 AM | Link to this
Re; Huber Tuckey’s remark: Spoken like a true Hamilton County Republican.By AP-FLORIDA
August 1, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
I was right all along-matt does have a man crush on griffeyBy ShockMonkey
August 1, 2008 5:41 AM | Link to this
Matt wrote: Lazy players end up like Corey Patterson. CP isn’t lazy, he’s just not very good. Look, that’s a warm and fuzzy story about meeting Griffey in the locker room but reality says it was time for him to go. We made the right move for everyone involved.By MAC
August 1, 2008 3:08 AM | Link to this
Love him or hate him, has anyone thought about how Ozzie and Jr might clash? The first time Jr. jogs down to 1st base…talk about your fireworks? Likewise, a Chicago based story mentioned their need for veteran BP help which makes me ask again, why weren’t Affeldt or Weathers added to the deal so that the Reds could have potential gotten more out of it? It gets old always being negative about the team, but it doesn’t sound as though they worked very hard to get a good deal? Clearly the Reds had quality players to trade and when you see other teams work 3 team deals, U have to ask why not the Reds???By mutaman
August 1, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this
“But every player in the lineup doesn’t need to be Hank Aaron.” Actually for most of his career, Aaron was never thought of as a big HR hitter, but as a great all around player. Plus he was great fundamentally. Once when comparing Aaron to Clemente, Joe Torre said “Clemente was great, he could throw a ball from Right field to Home on the fly. Aaron never did that, he always hit the cut off man”By Jim
August 1, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this
Good luck Griff! Anyone who ever was off of work for an extended period of time due to an injury, should think twice before they criticize Griffey. As you laid around the house thinking about your worth, think about how much worse it would have been if a thousand people stood outside yelling that you were a worthless slacker. Think about how many times you’ve ever called off sick, just because you didn’t want to work, how would it have been if someone taunted you, now imagine if you really were sick. I had the pleasure of seeing Griffey play centerfield in Pittsburgh in 2006. I was thrilled with every at bat, every time he turned and looked at the stands. It’s ashame more “real” Reds fans couldn’t appreciate a legend in their outfield. Some genius should’ve started a lawsuit against him for not putting a winning body on the field. Good luck Griff!By Matt
July 31, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
I remember back in 2002 when I met Ken Griffey Jr. I was a junior in high school and on a job shadowing assignment for school. I job shadowed the Reds media relations man, which was at that time Mike Vassallo. While at the ballpark, Vassallo took me on a tour. One of the stops we made was at the Reds clubhouse. I asked Vassallo if Griffey was at the ballpark that day, as he was on the DL at the time. Vassallo told me he wasn’t sure, but that he thought Griffey had already come to the ballpark and left that day after working out. When we got to the clubhouse Vassallo asked me to wait by the entrance for a second, and he walked in. He came back and motioned for me to come in the clubhouse, and as I did, Griffey and former Reds pitcher Joey Hamilton came walking towards me. I shook Hamilton’s hand and shared a few words with him, then met Junior. My jaw about hit the floor. Here I was standing face to face with one of the best players of all time and my favorite Cincinnati Red. Griffey talked to me like he had known me for 10 or 15 years, like we were old friends. He showed me pictures of his wife and kids, along with his jerseys, bats and other items. I asked for a autograph, and he agreed. He pulled an official Major League baseball from his locker and signed it for me. He even asked if I had change for a 5 if memory serves. It was one of the best memories of my life, and I proudly display the ball that he signed for me at my house. It is one of my prized possessions. God bless Ken Griffey Jr. for how he has played the game and what he has meant to the game, and also for being a Hall of Famer off the field. I’ll still wear my jersey with his name on it to games, and wear it proudly. Go Reds, and go get ‘em in Chicago, Junior!!By Matt
July 31, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
I remember back in 2002 when I met Ken Griffey Jr. I was a junior in high school and on a job shadowing assignment for school. I job shadowed the Reds media relations man, which was at that time Mike Vassallo. While at the ballpark, Vassallo took me on a tour. One of the stops we made was at the Reds clubhouse. I asked Vassallo if Griffey was at the ballpark that day, as he was on the DL at the time. Vassallo told me he wasn’t sure, but that he thought Griffey had already come to the ballpark and left that day after working out. When we got to the clubhouse Vassallo asked me to wait by the entrance for a second, and he walked in. He came back and motioned for me to come in the clubhouse, and as I did, Griffey and former Reds pitcher Joey Hamilton came walking towards me. I shook Hamilton’s hand and shared a few words with him, then met Junior. My jaw about hit the floor. Here I was standing face to face with one of the best players of all time and my favorite Cincinnati Red. Griffey talked to me like he had known me for 10 or 15 years, like we were old friends. He showed me pictures of his wife and kids, along with his jerseys, bats and other items. I asked for a autograph, and he agreed. He pulled an official Major League baseball from his locker and signed it for me. He even asked if I had change for a 5 if memory serves. It was one of the best memories of my life, and I proudly display the ball that he signed for me at my house. It is one of my prized possessions. God bless Ken Griffey Jr. for how he has played the game and what he has meant to the game, and also for being a Hall of Famer off the field. I’ll still wear my jersey with his name on it to games, and wear it proudly. Go Reds, and go get ‘em in Chicago, Junior!!By Ft. Myers Foursome
July 31, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Roy McMillan, Johnny Temple, Ted Kluzuski, Frank Robinson, Gordy Coleman, Wally Post, Gus Bell, Rose, Morgan, Bench, Foster, Perez, Concepcion, Larkin, Griffey Sr. and Griffey Jr. I’ve lived long enough to see some great Reds players. I’m greatful to the Reds for having had an opportunity to see one of the greatest players of all time, Ken Griffey Jr. I wish him nothing but the best. I apologize for not mentioning any of the Reds great pitchers. Yes, there have been a few.By bigdoc
July 31, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
In an ideal world, Jay Bruce at 23 or 24 (or B Phillips)becomes Lance Berkman/Ryan Braun, batting third ahead of Dunn (a younger, faster, Carlos Lee/Prince Fielder). There’s no way you can trade for either that kind of hitter or that kind of power. KG, Jr. at his prime combined the two. Lately, not so much. I think Mike Cameron is FA after this year, but he’s not a #3. As my late mother was wont to say, “We’ll see.”By Nick W
July 31, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
hubertucky ive been a diehard reds fan my whole life, when i was little i meet barry larkin at one of the redfest and got his autograph and thats when i really became a fan. I agree that this is not a sad day for the reds, i love the trade. We were gonna get rid of him anyway so at least we got something out of him, but i still like griffey and i hope that he can get another chance and win a world series. I think this is a horrible trade for the white soxs there gonna put griffey in center, he hasn’t played there in 2 years and i think all of his injurys here came when he was playing center, and if he doesn’t hustle or bat good ozzie Guillen isn’t gonna just let it go or bat him third cus he respects him..no he will bench him in a second so griffey better get ready for that cus Dusty is nothing like that. I am a fan of griffey but i love this trade and it is a chance for us to see what this team will look like next year and years to come. I can’t wait to see how dunn does or phillips and see if they step into a leadership role.By Matt
July 31, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
The Griffey trade, in my opinion, signals an end of an era in Cincinnati. Not just the Ken Griffey Jr. era. I’m talking about the hit-home-runs-and-win era. The days of the Reds being a beer league softball team are over, in my opinion. This trade signals that the Reds are going toward a more youthful team. One that focuses on speed and defense rather than sitting back and waiting for the 3 run home run. That being said though, I think the Reds commit long-term to Adam Dunn. One of the main reasons is that having home run power in that lineup, in that ballpark, is a necessity. But every player in the lineup doesn’t need to be Hank Aaron. The Reds need to have more guys in that lineup to get on base, so that a power hitter like Adam Dunn can drive them in. Hopefully, the Reds find a young guy with speed, but also some pop in the bat to compliment the two lefties, Bruce and Dunn, in the outfield. Having power from the left side is great, but you need power from the right side of the plate as well, especially in the outfield.By Mike-Cinci
July 31, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Will Dunn step up with Griffey gone? Jocketty said the “Dunn, Hairston, Bruce outfield could be a preview of 2009 and give us an idea whether we resign Dunn and Hairston”. Jocketty also said “the Reds are retooling” which I assume is different than rebuilding. Could this be addition by subtraction? We will soon find out by how they play.By Matt
July 31, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
More nonsense from the “cancer” of this blog, Hubertucky, or whatever state he is naming himself after today. Lackadaisical play? Would that include his diving catches? His hustle on his first triple of the season several days ago? His 608 home runs? Sorry, but that doesn’t seem like lackadaisical play to me. Lazy players end up like Corey Patterson. What negative attitude are you talking about, Huber? Was he showing his negative attitude when he gave his batting helmet to the young man behind home plate a few nights ago after his home run? What about when he took less money than he would have gotten to come here in the first place? Go ask the players like Jay Bruce if Junior was a “cancer”. Ask his managers if Griffey was a “cancer”. More idiotic, blatantly false and ridiculous postings from our blog “cancer”, Huber. Wake up, sir.By HuberTucky
July 31, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a diehard Reds fan since I got my first autographed team ball at Crosley Field in 1955 and can tell you, this is NOT a sad day for me as a Reds fan. I’m glad to see Griffey go and take his ho-hum attitude and lackadaisical play and .244 BA with him. His negative attitude will NOT be missed by REAL Reds fans, contrary to what some Matt-come-lately bloghogs seem to proffer here with their diuretic diatribes. Now go wipe away your tears and dry behind your ears, and quit yer whining! The cancerous tumor is out and the patient will live.By Y-City Jim
July 31, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
So will Bruce go into the three hole or will it be Dunn with Bruce in the five hole?By Terry
July 31, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
Matt, I second your comments and just wish Jr. the best in everything. I have never understood the way the “fans” turned on him in the first place.By Don L
July 31, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
I hope Jr makes it to the World Series and rises to the occasion by leading the CWS to victory. Unfortuneately, most of the baseball world did not get to see him during his best years because of his playing in Seattle. His injuries when he came to the Reds and his difficult rehab did not allow us to see his tremendous talents but he never gave up. He is and always will be a super star and I for one am glad of the opportunity to have seen him play for the Reds. Go get’em Jr and get that ring.By Kyle
July 31, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
Well…He wasn’t coming back next year and he isn’t going into the Hall in a Reds uniform, so why not now? I kind of like the idea of him passing Sammy in Chicago. I’d love to see him in the post season too. As of now, I don’t think we got much for him, but this still works out for both teams. It will be good to see someone else in the 3 hole who can hit to all fields. Best of luck Junior.By Matt
July 31, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this
Today is a sad day for Reds fans. Ken Griffey Jr., a legend and one of the best players to ever wear a Reds uniform is gone. No more of # 3 patrolling right field. No more of the home run tracker by the Pepsi Smokestacks. No more seeing that sweet swing of Junior, and him hitting his majestic home runs. No doubt while being one of the best Reds, Junior was also one of the least appreciated, both on and off the field. Everyone knows his accomplishments on the field; the 608 career home runs, the 10 Gold Gloves, the 4th player in major league history to hit over 300 home runs for one team and and over 200 home runs for another team. But what about off the field? He didn’t do it to make headlines or to get attention, but his charity work and helping hand to the community were first-rate and second to none. The trips with the less fortunate kids to Kings Island and to the bowling alley. His contributions to charitable organizations. Few people know the scope of all that, but it was there, just as plain as the All-Star smile on Griffey’s face. That smile wore off the past few years as injuries took their toll and Junior went from being the best in the game to being, well, average. But he never quit. As easy as it would have been to just give up and retire during the worst of his injuries, he just kept on trucking. He gave the Reds his all, and the notion that the Reds didn’t win during Griffey’s tenure here because of Griffey is simply preposterous. He performed as best as he could when healthy, and th Reds, who promised him when he was traded here to build a winner around here, never did. The lack of respect and utter venomous hate directed at Junior by so-called “fans” of this team is unbelievable. Any true fan of the Reds and of MLB respects the fact that one of the best players to ever play the game played here. In the era of steroids and cheating, he did it the right way. He truly is “The Natural”. What he has meant to the game of MLB over his career is indescribable. Was he perfect? No. But he played his butt off here for 9 years and gave his all to this team. I am proud that he played for the Reds, and I wish him nothing but the best with the White Sox. Hopefully he can get that World Series ring that he has always wanted. Sorry that it couldn’t have come with the Reds. But it is what it is. One of the best to ever put a baseball uniform is gone, but not forgotten. At least not by this Reds fan. God bless you, Ken Griffey Jr., and Godspeed.By Moe Elliot
July 31, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
ever heard of spell check?By Wizard
July 31, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
I hope the sweetest swing since Ted Williams passes Sosa tomorrow.He can still handle pitching mistakes middle in—it was the low and away pitches, that most staffs threw to him that were his downfall in later years—That,and the shift.I still think if he’d hit that pitch{fastball}he gets usually every at bat—to left, he would drive in more runs. I wonder what the team reaction will be—when they play again? New lineup/return of Hairston.It will be interesting.By Y-City Jim
July 31, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Now let’s break the Jocketty policy of not negotiating during the season and sit down with Dunn. He has dropped major hints that he desires to stay in Cincinnati. Make it so ASAP so the front office can focus on the needs at catcher, center field, and the bench.By Mr. Baseball
July 31, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
Putting emotions aside, trading Griffey was a good move for this reason: It allows the Reds to get some idea of what the team would look like WITH Dunn and WITHOUT Griffey, for a two-month period until the end of the year. Consider it a trial run as to whether the Reds should invest in a multi-year contract for Dunn starting next season. The next two months without Griffey will give a clearer picture of whether Dunn can carry the team, whether the Reds can build around him, and how the other parts fit together. Granted, this team still needs to fill a lot of holes. But this move gives a better opportunity to see if Dunn is the man or not. Hopefully, this move will allow Dunn to step out of Griffey’s shadow, grow up a little, and take the leadership role that this team desparately needs.By nick w
July 31, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
great job hal, today has been a crazy day. There u go reds authority u happy 4 new blogs in an hour about griffey id say that is keeping us well informed about this crazy trade!!again great job hal and thanks!!By victor mickunas
July 31, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Ken Griffey, Jr. has always carried himself with class. The White Sox are lucky to get him.By bigdoc
July 31, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
More splendid journalism, Hal! I’m amazed that Walt didn’t clear all this with that noted expert, ‘Reds Authority.’