Ken Griffey Jr. Injured Once Again

by JD Arney on Sep 20, 2007 2:13 AM EDT in News

All too familiar a scene to the right there, but this time it's the groin:

Cincinnati Reds right fielder Ken Griffey Jr. had to leave Wednesday night's game against the Chicago Cubs in the eighth inning after straining his lower abdomen as he tried to make a throw to the infield.
With a runner at second, Griffey fielded a base hit by Chicago's Derrek Lee. As he started to make a throw Griffey stopped in pain and had to underhand the ball back to the infield before falling to the ground. Baserunner Ryan Theriot held at third on the play.

Hell of a year for Griffey. Only the second time he's managed 500+ at bats in a season as a Red, and he made the most of them. Hopefully this injury isn't anything that will affect his 2008 season.

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Sickening

Every time.

A buddy stopped by last night mid-way through the game. As I stood on the porch talking, I looked back through the window to see Griff throw the ball underhanded and grab his crotch. After looking at the sky and asking "Why?", I opted to flip the tv off on my way to the kitchen for another round. I resumed the discussion in Pirate on the porch. "He's pulled he's tallywacker or gizzard for sure. Tis a berth for him the rest of the voyage. The sea dog commands such a big share of our spoils each year. One more year on this boat. Arrr."

But maybe God does love the Reds. This could have been 4 months ago, not that it would have mattered.

Damn it feels good to be a Pirate!

by sukr on Sep 20, 2007 8:55 AM EDT reply actions

The biggest problem with this

is that it pretty much eliminates trading him, at least for any value. Not that I necessarily wanted to trade him, but at least it finally seemed like a realistic option. Now, it doesn't. Sure somebody might be willing to take a chance on him, but I doubt anybody will give up a significant prospect for him. It just reminded people that he's still pretty fragile.

I'm a numbers freak, numbers freak. I'm numbers freaky, ow.

by Slyde on Sep 20, 2007 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions

I agree

This is the first thing I thought of when he went down...I'm not a caring person I guess haha

Killer Tucans all the way!!!

by Zach K on Sep 20, 2007 9:20 AM EDT up reply actions

I wouldn't say it's the first thing I thought

but I've had the impression this year that Junior really wouldn't mind if he got traded. It's probably all in my head, but I guess with the reaction that he got in Seattle, I've just imagined that he's felt the grass was greener in other pastures. And since he only has one more guaranteed year on his contract and since he had been healthy and good for most of this season, I figured now was the time.

I feel bad for him because most of his injuries came from playing hard (except for hurting his foot rounding first on a home run, and breaking his wrist this off-season). I don't think he's been dogging it like some have said. I actually think he's hit a wall this year because he's not used to playing this much. That's just my theory though. But even last night he was hurt trying to make a play.

Oh well, maybe Seattle will still want him anyway. Who knows?

I'm a numbers freak, numbers freak. I'm numbers freaky, ow.

by Slyde on Sep 20, 2007 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions

My thought

wasn't for his health, which I simply assume to be precarious at all times, nor his trade value because I have never really thought we'd be able to unload him and keep MLB players on the field. I worry about the end of his contract, what happens then. I don't think we could keep him for cheap. I just hope Wayner doesn't seriously negotiate with him again.

I find myself uncharacteristically non-sentimental about keeping him here to finish his career in a Reds uni. I'm just done. Part of me feels he would take far less to go somewhere else and I hate that.

Damn it feels good to be a Pirate!

by sukr on Sep 20, 2007 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions

i feel the same way

i hate to think that i don't care if he goes, but we've had such disappointment with him in the past eight years and we have bruce waiting with nowhere to play right now that i wouldn't mind seeing griffey gone. but only to seattle. I don't want to watch him play with anyone else.

I love the Reds no matter what!

by Daedalus on Sep 20, 2007 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions

While I would agree

in that I am similarly unsentimental about Griff, he has had a helluva year, and I would hope he has one or two more in him. I would really like to see him #600 in a Reds uni, which I think would go a long way toward healing the bad blood on both his part and the fans part.

I feel sad for him that the story he wanted to write and the one that is being written are pretty dramatically different.

That being said, if he is getting sentimental about Seattle, I seem to recall more than a few rumblings out of there when we got him about how thin-skinned he was, how he didn't take criticism well, and that maybe we weren't getting who we thought we were.

It is too bad that his Cincinnati legacy seems to be so mixed up and complex, but I think that a few years from now, we will look back on him the way that many of us now regard Eric the Red. One helluva player, cut down in his prime, but still one helluva player.

"I'd walk through hell in a gasoline suit to play baseball" - Pete Rose

by Officer Dibble on Sep 20, 2007 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions

You know what

would heal every bit of bad blood? Him saying "you know, I owe Cinci one. Pay me league minimum until I retire (which would obviously be way before his deferred money stops)" I know this is so far out of the realm of reality it's not even funny, but it's not like he needs the money or we've seen even close to the performance it should have bought us... ever. Not that I blame him for being the injury capital of the free world, but now what? He'll probably want more than we feel he's worth and go somewhere else to hit 600 for a bargain. That is sad.

I'm like D, how could we ever be satisfied watching him play to the end for someone else after paying for him. It just seems the future of the team has long hinged on him in part because of his salary. Sheesh! Can you imagine what shape we'd be in if we didn't get a so called hometown discount?

rumblings out of there when we got him about how thin-skinned he was
-I don't remember this it was so long ago. But then, I still find myself amazed I have to manually wipe my own ass here in the future. :))

Damn it feels good to be a Pirate!

by sukr on Sep 20, 2007 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions

Not a bad idea

But I guess I'm wondering why you would expect Griff to do something that no other athlete has ever done, or ever will do, regardless of how he is perceived by the fans? For example, Lark and Rijo were (and are) beloved by the fans, but neither of them ever played for donuts.

I am not certain that Griff would re-sign here after his contract is up (assuming he signs anywhere), but I would find it hard to believe that he would play for less somewhere else just to escape Cincy.

"I'd walk through hell in a gasoline suit to play baseball" - Pete Rose

by Officer Dibble on Sep 20, 2007 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions

Not really

expecting something that ridiculous. It was kinda tongue in cheek, more of an illustration of how much bad blood I think there is. For that reason, I hate thinking it, but I don't doubt he'd play somewhere else for less.

Damn it feels good to be a Pirate!

by sukr on Sep 21, 2007 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions

Eric the Red

I agree he was truly one helluva player. And career wise he pails in comparison to Griffey. That is how good KGJ has been.

I would hate to see Jr leave now but the situation is what it is. Selfishly, I want to see 600 and another 50 or so come in Cincinnati Red. Thanks for the great effort and season Griffey and I can't wait to see you back next season.

Hope Springs Eternal! Go Reds

by Caleb on Sep 20, 2007 10:16 PM EDT up reply actions

Just curious?

If Jr. does still hold value, and assuming Seattle would value him more than most teams, does anyone think a trade of Junior for Jarred Washburn would be a good one. There Is about a 4 million dollar a year difference and that may need to be addressed, but over all I think Washburn would be a solid 2 or 3 in our organization and would put lot of pressure and competition on 4/5 spot. In addition he is lefty. We might need to throw in a decent prospect to offset some Jr's risk, but I think it would benefit both organizations.

by gocolts on Sep 20, 2007 9:37 AM EDT reply actions

I don't trust

Wayne to make a high-profile trade beneficial to us long term. i want to just ride out Jr.s contract and let it go away.

Damn it feels good to be a Pirate!

by sukr on Sep 20, 2007 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions

Washburn

Actually Washburn is guaranteed more money combined in 2008 and 2009 than Junior. He'll make $10M in 2008 and about $10.2M in 2009. Junior is only guaranteed about $12.5M in 2008 with an option on 2009 for $16.5M (with a $4M buyout). If this were the deal that was being made, I wouldn't give up anything more than Junior for Washburn, and I might ask for a little bit more in return (either cash or decent but not great prospect).

As for Washburn's credentials, he's not the type of pitcher I would pine after, but I'm sure the Reds could do worse. I don't think he would be as successful with the Reds as he has with Seattle (and honestly that's not saying much). he doesn't strike out very many hitters (around than 5 per 9 IP) and he does have a flyball tendency. I don't know how good Seattle's defense is, but the Reds can be a bit porous and with a guy that can't regularly get outs on his own, I worry that he'll find himself in trouble a lot.

Like I said, the Reds probably could do worse, but I'd hope for a more exciting return or at least for freeing up some money if Junior is traded. Personally, I'd liked to see him traded for a couple of cheap bullpen arms with some upside. I think the rotation will take care of itself without spending $10M on a slightly below average pitcher.

I'm a numbers freak, numbers freak. I'm numbers freaky, ow.

by Slyde on Sep 20, 2007 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions

How about Putz?

You guys have turned from a peeping tom to an active participator. Anyways, I love Griff, but I think it's time to part ways with him. I cant see how we can get any higher trade value out of him now than ever again. Maybe Washburn is not the answer but I would like to get some good starting pitching or some very very good bullpen relief (Putz?).
I thought Castelini was going to up payroll when he came in. Without paying Jr. or Milton that should free up 20 million. Bruce's rookie season next year will proably be better than what jr has averaged with the reds since 2001. Moving Hamilton to rightfield would hopefully have the same effect as it did with Jr.

by gocolts on Sep 20, 2007 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions

Oh yeah.

I bet the Mariners are jumping all over the chance to give up the best closer in the league for Junior. That's a perfectly logical move for them.

If we trade him to Seattle, I'd be more than happy with one of Wladimir Balentien, Brandon Morrow, or Jeff Clement. Another possibility is Kenji Johjima, if they decide that they want to keep Clement. I think Seattle's an ideal place to grab a catcher not named David Ross, and they've gotta be wanting Junior, given that Ichiro leads their team in OPS (at a whopping .838).

by Geki on Sep 20, 2007 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions

The Mariners are probably calling up the D-Backs

Seeing what they want for Randy Johnson, too.

by Brendanukkah on Sep 20, 2007 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions

no, that's wayne

votto and dunn for johnson. you heard it here first.

;)

I love the Reds no matter what!

by Daedalus on Sep 20, 2007 11:39 AM EDT up reply actions

I doubt they'd trade Putz

And I don't think it will take a great reliever. I'd rather get a couple of solid Bobby Howry type relievers (though younger and cheaper). Not necessarily with closer type stuff, but somebody with a little zip to their fastball. You put three or four guys in the pen who can throw strikes and can get people out on a regular basis and this team looks markedly better.

I'm just not excited by the idea of taking the money saved from Griffey and Milton and turning around and spending it on an average at best starter. I'd rather take my chances with Homer, Cueto, and Maloney and save the money for better options.

For instance, what if the Reds were able to save $10M next year with plan that they would commit themselves to going strongly after a pitcher the next year when the free agent class includes Johan Santana, C.C. Sabathia, Brad Penny, Ben Sheets, Derek Lowe, and perhaps Dontrelle Willis (still can't figure out what his status is). Obviously not all of those guys will be available by then, but that's a much better crop of starters compared to this year. I'd rather take a chance with the youngsters than have the Reds lock themselves out of that market with someone like Washburn.

I'm a numbers freak, numbers freak. I'm numbers freaky, ow.

by Slyde on Sep 20, 2007 11:39 AM EDT up reply actions

Jr.'s Injury Hopefully Not Bad, But...

We keep saying this at the end of every season, and he's getting a year older each time. He only has so much left. He's injured just about every part of his body. I don't blame him for it, some players are just more injury prone, but I will always wonder what could've been.

by tonywf on Sep 20, 2007 11:49 AM EDT reply actions

why can't stuff like this happen

to mcclayton instead of griffey? when the heck did the red sox call him up? it's no wonder they're in a freefall with him on their roster.

I love the Reds no matter what!

by Daedalus on Sep 20, 2007 12:29 PM EDT reply actions

I'll get hammered on here if I write what I think

about Griffey.

So I'll just say that this injury is not exactly a surprise.

What'cha gonna do, Red Reporters, when Brennamania runs wild on you?

by chandrathan on Sep 20, 2007 1:14 PM EDT reply actions

I'm sad

Contrary to most of the thoughts I've read here today, this stuff always makes me sad. It's not just because I'm a Reds fan. Jr has been such a phenomenal player at times - far more natural talent than bums like Sosa or McGwire, and slightly more talent than Bonds, in my opinion - that it just seems cruel that he's had to endure this over the last several years. And then to see the glimpses of greatness he's shown in this, a rare healthy year - it's just sad.

To compare, imagine Jordan hobbling through eight years of hamstrings and abdominal strains instead of just retiring at the height of his game for the second time (I choose to blissfully ignore his Washington purgatory). It almost feels like the entire baseball community has been robbed.

On the plus side, however, Jr ought to be credited for playing through these hardships with general dignity and pride, not to mention clean of chemical enhancements. There's a life lesson in there somewhere, but I'll let you figure it out.

by ben nevis on Sep 20, 2007 1:15 PM EDT reply actions

Jordan Wasn't that bad with the Wizards

He was just average. 22.9 and 20.0 PPG is pretty good for being in your late 30s!!!

Killer Tucans all the way!!!

by Zach K on Sep 20, 2007 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions

im with you ben

as a child of the 90s, jr forever will be the idol of the child inside me. i remember feeling the same way while watching jr play as when i watched jordan play. even the naked eye of an 11-year-old could tell how easy it was for them.

but all romanticism aside, his injuries over all these years have all but demolished any chance the reds ever had at competing. this has been the most messed up marriage ive ever witnessed, and im of the MTV generation.

i dont want to see him traded. he means too much. but i dont want to see him stay either. jay bruce is sooo much better for this team, financial-wise. and i dont think his output would be too much less either.

this is just like a big damn greek tragedy. you know it wont end well, but its required reading.

at least this isnt pittsburgh

by Charlie Scrabbles on Sep 20, 2007 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions

Griffey

was due for this.

He should have been rested more in the last few weeks. Of all the things that Mackanin has rightly or wrongly been accused of, this one should be layed square on his desk.
Griffey has been over-played the last month. He knows that the fatigue has cost him bat-speed, and he probably started to pull whatever it was in his leg/groin in his last At Bat, by overswinging. George and Jeff showed that a couple of times last night.
I mean, geez, this is dumb. It was an accident waiting to happen.

And the Reds now need another outfielder for the last 10 days. Jason Ellison is a joke, and Buck Coats not much better. Can we see Chris Dickerson? At least he is on the 40 man roster.
We will NOT see Jay Bruce. But we might see Keppinger in right, and Pedro Lopez at SS

Wayne, don't make a joke of the last 10 games. This season has been embarrasing enough.

My karma just ran over your dogma

by Lonesome George on Sep 20, 2007 2:45 PM EDT reply actions

Is Pedro Lopez back?

Not that he's good, but that's good news. That hit to the face he took was nasty.

by Brendanukkah on Sep 20, 2007 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions

Yep

Came back September 9th. Though he hasn't played since coming back.

I'm a numbers freak, numbers freak. I'm numbers freaky, ow.

by Slyde on Sep 20, 2007 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions

Preventable?

Surprised that nobody has mentioned Griffey's AB immediately prior to the injury. When he struck out swinging in the 8th, I thought I saw him wince in his awkward final swing. The ESPN announcer caught it too. He should've been yanked at that point.

by ken on Sep 21, 2007 8:06 AM EDT reply actions