What does Ken Griffey Jr. do now?

By Oliver Wiener April 22, 2024 12:41

Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Ken Griffey Jr., also known as "Junior" and "the Kid," is a former American professional baseball outfielder who has left a lasting legacy in the world of baseball

. Despite retiring from professional baseball, Griffey remains active in various endeavors, including philanthropy and business ventures.

Professional Career

Ken Griffey Jr. had a remarkable professional baseball career spanning 22 years in Major League Baseball (MLB).

He played for several teams including the Seattle Mariners, Cincinnati Reds, and the Chicago White Sox.

Griffey was known for his exceptional skills as an outfielder and a prolific home run hitter, with 630 home runs to his name, ranking as the seventh-most in MLB history.

After retiring from playing, Griffey joined the Mariners' front office as a special consultant. Additionally, he was inducted into both the Mariners Hall of Fame and the Reds Hall of Fame.

In 2016, Griffey was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, setting a record with 99.32% of the vote, reflecting his significant impact on the sport.

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Philanthropic Work

Griffey is actively involved in philanthropy through his charitable initiatives. In 2008, he released a series of charity wines to support

The Ken Griffey Jr. Family Foundation, which aims to support causes such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and several children's hospitals across the United States.

He also serves as an honorary co-chairman of the AOPA Foundation's Hat in the Ring Society, a charitable organization that promotes aviation safety and education.

Business Ventures

Griffey has also ventured into business, signing lucrative deals with international companies like Nike and Nintendo during his playing career.

His popularity and endorsement deals have been credited with helping restore MLB's image after the 1994 labor dispute.

The Griffey family also joined as minority owners in the Seattle Sounders FC in 2020, showcasing their continued involvement in the sports industry.

Other Notable Contributions and Achievements

Apart from his contributions to baseball, Griffey has been recognized for his significant impact on the sport.

He is one of only 31 players in baseball history to have appeared in major league games in four different calendar decades, highlighting his enduring influence on the game.

Griffey's achievements extend beyond the field, as he was named an American Public Diplomacy Envoy by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in 2008, reflecting his broader influence in the realm of diplomacy and public service.

Furthermore, Griffey's contribution to the video game industry is notable, as he was featured as the cover athlete for the American version of the video game MLB The Show 17, showcasing his influence beyond the realm of sports.

From his philanthropic endeavors to his involvement in business and sports ownership, Griffey's influence transcends the boundaries of the sports world, making him a revered figure both on and off the field.

Overall, Ken Griffey Jr.'s current activities and endeavors reflect his continued dedication to making a positive impact, showcasing his enduring influence and relevance in the world of sports and beyond.