Griffey Jr. to the Sox?

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Jul 31, 2008 3:00PM

Perhaps a few years later than initially expected, the White Sox are rumored to be acquiring Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. before today's trading, deadline according to FoxSports. The deal, in which the Sox will give up prospects, is supposedly awaiting Griffey's approval—he's a 10-and-5 player—before being officially announced.

With the Sox in first place at the deadline, GM Ken Williams is looking to add the final pieces to ensure his team can compete through October. It's known he was looking to add bullpen help, with both Bobby Jenks and Scott Linebrink spending time of the DL this month.

But Griffey? Hitting .245 with 15 home runs and 53 RBIs for the Cincinnati Reds this season, he'll likely return to center field and play along side Carlos Quentin and Jermaine Dye. That means we'll probably see Nick Swisher platooning at first with Paul Konerko.

Chicagoist isn't sure what to think of this deal. Seems like it's just another oft-injured, low-average slugger added to a roster full of 'em. How about a leadoff man, Kenny? We really believe a table setter is the difference between a late October run or an early playoff exit.

Update: Griffey approved the deal. Sox send Danny Richar and Nick Masset to the Reds in return. Still technically awaiting MLB's "rubber stamp" of approval.

AP Photo/David Kohl