BREAKING NEWS: It is Done Seattle Mariners Legend Ken Griffey Jr Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental, Seattle Mariners owner John W. Stanton and his family has officially declared that Ken Griffey the legendary outfielder and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner..…view more
In a monumental announcement that has reignited the hearts of Mariners fans across the globe, Ken Griffey Jr. the most iconic figure in Seattle Mariners history, is officially returning to the franchise — not as a player, but as a co-owner. The news was confirmed by Mariners owner John W. Stanton and his family, who shared the exciting development during a press conference held at T-Mobile Park on Thursday afternoon.
Starting in **2025**, Griffey will become a permanent part of the ownership group, ushering in a new chapter in Mariners history and solidifying his legacy not just as the face of the franchise’s past, but as a vital piece of its future.
Ken Griffey Jr.’s relationship with the Mariners is nothing short of legendary. Drafted first overall in 1987, “The Kid” debuted in 1989 and immediately became the centerpiece of the franchise — both in talent and personality. With his smooth left-handed swing, 10 Gold Glove Awards, 13 All-Star selections, and 630 career home runs, Griffey brought national attention and pride to a franchise that had long struggled to find its identity.
Now, more than a decade after retiring from baseball, Griffey returns to the organization in a role no less significant than when he patrolled center field. Speaking at the press conference, an emotional Griffey shared:
> “Seattle has always been home. This team, this city — they gave me everything. Now, I want to give back in the biggest way possible, by helping lead this organization to where it belongs: at the top.
Griffey’s new role as a co-owner is more than ceremonial. According to Stanton, Griffey will have a voice in major organizational decisions, player development, marketing strategies, and community outreach. His focus will not only be on building a championship-caliber team but also on continuing to grow the Mariners’ influence in the broader sports landscape.
> “Ken is not just a baseball legend. He’s a leader, a visionary, and someone who truly understands what this franchise means to this city. We’re thrilled to welcome him back — not just as part of our history, but as a key to our future.”
Griffey’s ownership stake also makes him one of the few Black minority owners in Major League Baseball — a significant and symbolic development in the ongoing conversation about diversity in professional sports leadership.
The reaction from the baseball community has been overwhelmingly positive. Mariners fans flooded social media with praise and excitement, calling it a “perfect reunion” and “a long overdue move.
Current Mariners players also expressed enthusiasm, with several saying they are looking forward to learning from a legend who understands every aspect of the game.
The Mariners have been on the rise in recent seasons, building a competitive roster and developing a promising farm system. With Griffey Jr. now in the front office as a co-owner, the organization believes it can finally take the next step — bringing home the franchise’s first-ever World Series title.
Griffey closed his statement with a promise that resonated deeply:
> “We’ve come close before. But I believe the best is yet to come. I’m here to help bring a championship to Seattle. That’s the mission.”
Ken Griffey Jr.’s return to the Seattle Mariners as a co-owner is not only a major milestone in the franchise’s history but a meaningful moment for the entire baseball world. As the Mariners look to a bright future, they now do so with one of the game’s all-time greats leading the way — both on and off the field.