Hall of Fame baseball legend Ken Griffey Jr. is returning to Major League Baseball full-time, but this time around he won’t be playing centerfield. Instead the former Seattle Mariner will be joining the MLB’s front office as a senior adviser to Commissioner Rob Manfred.
The new role comes with a range of responsibilities. Griffey will act as a consultant to the league for baseball operations, youth baseball development and how to improve diversity within the sport. The Hall of Farmer will also play a special role in youth baseball initiatives and special events, acting as an MLB ambassador.
Few former MLB players have a resume as impressive as Griffey’s. With 13 all-star appearances, a career 1836 RBIs and 22 seasons in the MLB – there is no doubt Griffey is ready to represent the MLB in this role.
Acting as a youth ambassador for the MLB since 2010, Griffey has had over a decade of experience around initiatives to get youth involved in the sport. Beyond that, his own kids played baseball growing up for years. He’s also played a huge role in the league’s tradition of players wearing #42 on Jackie Robinson Day.
Ken Griffey Jr. has been met with success at nearly every point in his career, there is no reason to think he won’t find success in this role as well. With his charismatic charm and impressive baseball accolades, he should make a great senior adviser to the commissioner and easily be able to inspire kids across the country to pick up a bat and swing.
