It’s very very unfortunate to believe but it happens,
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
Seattle, WA — In a groundbreaking announcement that blends baseball history with bold vision for the future, the Seattle Mariners have officially confirmed that Ken Griffey Jr., one of the most iconic players in Major League Baseball history, will return to the franchise in 2025 as a co-owner. Mariners principal owner John W. Stanton alongside his family, publicly declared the news this week, sparking widespread celebration across Seattle and the sports world.
This historic move sees “The Kid” — the man who helped define an entire generation of baseball — step into the executive suite, not as a symbolic figure, but as a powerful and influential partner in shaping the next chapter of Mariners baseball.
For many, Ken Griffey Jr. is synonymous with Seattle Mariners baseball. From his debut in 1989 through his dominant run in the 1990s, Griffey brought a rare combination of charisma, power, and athleticism to the game. He captivated fans with his signature backward cap, picturesque left-handed swing, and highlight-reel catches in center field.
Griffey played 13 of his 22 MLB seasons with the Mariners, hitting 417 of his 630 career home runs in a Seattle uniform. He was a 13-time All-Star 10-time Gold Glove winner, and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016** with a then-record 99.3% vote.
Now, Griffey returns not as a player, but as a partner — with an ownership stake and a voice in the strategic direction of the organization.
During a press conference held at T-Mobile Park, Mariners chairman John Stanton said
Ken Griffey Jr. is not only a baseball legend but also a beloved figure in Seattle. His values, vision, and lifelong commitment to this organization make him the perfect partner as we continue building a world-class franchise. We’re proud to welcome him back, this time as a co-owner.
Griffey’s inclusion in the ownership group also marks a significant moment in baseball history. He is now one of **the few former players — and one of even fewer African-Americans — to hold an ownership stake in an MLB franchise. It’s a move that many see as long overdue.
Ken Griffey Jr. was visibly emotional during the announcement as he reflected on his journey with the Mariners.
This city has given me so much throughout my life. I came here as a teenager and grew up with the Mariners. To now return and help lead this team into the future is something I could’ve only dreamed of. Seattle is my home, and I’m ready to do my part.
Griffey emphasized his commitment to not only helping the Mariners succeed on the field, but also working behind the scenes to advance community outreach, youth development, and diversity initiatives throughout the region.
Griffey’s return comes at a time of renewed hope and rising expectations for the Mariners. With young stars like Julio Rodríguez, newly extended catcher Cal Raleigh and a pitching core anchored by Logan Gilbert and George Kirby, the franchise is poised to become a serious postseason contender in the coming years.
Griffey’s presence adds an invaluable layer of leadership and institutional knowledge — someone who understands both the emotional weight of the Mariners’ history and the ambition required to reach new heights.
The response to the announcement has been nothing short of electric. Fans took to social media with hashtags like GriffeyReturns #TheKidIsBack and MarinersRoyalty, flooding timelines with videos, photos, and emotional messages of gratitude.
Former teammates, current MLB players, and executives across the league praised the move, calling it a “full-circle moment” and a step forward for inclusion and innovation in baseball ownership.
With his return, Ken Griffey Jr. completes a remarkable arc — from teenage phenom to baseball icon to now a steward of the franchise he helped build. It’s a moment that celebrates the past while boldly embracing the future.
The Kid is back. But now, he’s all gro
wn up — and ready to lead the Mariners in a whole new way.