Might the Sox Add Griffey?

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Aug 16, 2005 6:59PM

The most persistent Sox rumor involving a hitter prior to the non-waivers trading deadline involved them landing Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. Supposedly a deal was nixed at the deadline by Reds ownership. Word that Griffey has been put on the waiver wire and cleared waivers means the rumors of his coming to the South Side are reemerging. Supposedly, the deal continues to be held up by Reds management -- who don't want to remain on the hook for a large chunk of Griffey's remaining contract.

Once the most feared hitter in baseball, a rash of injuries over the past few seasons has dimmed his star power. After hitting over 200 home runs in his final 4 seasons with the Mariners, he has hit just 130 in nearly 6 years with the Reds as he has never played in more than 111 games. Having remained healthy all season this year, Griffey is hitting .286 with 27 home runs and 81 RBIs. Another bat in the line-up with those stats would surely be welcome in the lineup -- especially now.

The Sox placed left fielder and lead-off hitter Scott Podsednik on the DL yesterday because of a strained groin. While the move was more precautionary than necessary, ScoPo had been caught stealing 9 of his last 13 attempts. Fortunately, the Sox have the luxury of a 12 game lead so they can let him rest.

As a replacement, the Sox called up Brian Anderson from Triple-A Charlotte. He'd been hitting .295 with 23 doubles, 15 homers and 54 RBIs in 111 games. Not quite Griffey numbers, but hopefully he can hold dotn the fort for a couple weeks. Unless Griffey makes his way to Chicago.