BREAKING NEWS: The Seattle Mariners Unveil Statue outside Safeco field Honoring Sensation Ken Griffey Jr. — A Monument to Grit, Greatness, and Giving Back
BREAKING NEWS: The Seattle Mariners Unveil Statue Outside Safeco Field Honoring Sensation Ken Griffey Jr. — A Monument to Grit, Greatness, and Giving Back
In a historic moment that cements the legacy of one of baseball’s most iconic figures, the Seattle Mariners unveiled a statue of Ken Griffey Jr. outside Safeco Field (now officially T-Mobile Park) today.
The larger-than-life bronze sculpture immortalizes “The Kid” in his signature home-run swing — a pose instantly recognizable to fans across generations. The tribute marks a celebration not just of Griffey’s on-field brilliance, but also of his enduring influence off the field.
Ken Griffey Jr., a Hall of Famer and 13-time All-Star, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history. With 630 career home runs, 10 Gold Gloves, and an MVP award in 1997, Griffey electrified the game with his rare combination of power, speed, and defensive brilliance. More than his statistics, though, Griffey represented a golden era for Seattle baseball. His swagger, backwards cap, and infectious smile became the face of the Mariners throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
The statue unveiling drew thousands of fans, former teammates, and community leaders who gathered to pay tribute to a player who gave Seattle baseball a national spotlight. Griffey, visibly moved by the ceremony, thanked the fans, his family, and the Mariners organization in a heartfelt speech.
“This isn’t just a statue of me,” Griffey said. “It’s a statue for every kid who ever picked up a bat dreaming big, for this city that believed in me from day one, and for the community that continues to show what it means to give back.”
Indeed, Griffey’s legacy transcends the game. Beyond his storied playing career, he has been a committed philanthropist, supporting children’s hospitals, educational programs, and youth sports initiatives. His work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Make-A-Wish Foundation has touched countless lives, and his voice remains active in causes focused on racial equality and youth empowerment.
The Mariners front office described the statue as a “monument to grit, greatness, and giving back” — an apt summary of Griffey’s journey. It stands as a beacon outside the stadium where he made magic, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.
As the sun set over the Seattle skyline, fans stood in silence and admiration before breaking into spontaneous applause. The Kid has become a legend — and now, his swing, his spirit, and his story are etched in bronze for all to see.
