Mariners Greatest Hits: “The Kid” Center Fielder Ken Griffey Jr

Aug 6, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners former player Ken Griffey Jr. leads the crowd in a chant during his number retirement ceremony before the start of a game against the Los Angeles Angels at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

“The throw to the plate is late! The Mariners are going to play, for the American League Championship!”

Come on. Did you really think we could get through an entire article without mentioning “The Kid’s” dash around the bases? The iconic image of the famous Griffey smile at the bottom of the pile at home plate is perhaps the single most recognizable picture in Seattle sports.

Most fans can remember the inning like it was yesterday. Joey Cora avoiding the tag of Don Mattingly at first. Junior’s base hit up the middle. Edgar Martinez’s double down the left field line. All beautifully narrated by Hall of Fame broadcaster Dave Niehaus.

The most iconic moment in Mariners history, and the most iconic player in Mariners history, forever together. Nirvana.

“The throw to the plate is late! The Mariners are going to play, for the American League Championship!”

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