Like Father, Like Son: The Griffeys Make MLB History

On August 31st in sports history, one significant event took place in 1990 when Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. became the first father-son duo to play in the same Major League Baseball game.

The historic moment occurred during a game between the Seattle Mariners and the Kansas City Royals at the Kingdome in Seattle, Washington. Ken Griffey Sr., at the age of 40, had been signed by the Mariners earlier that month and was nearing the end of his illustrious career. His son, Ken Griffey Jr., aged 20, was in his second season with the Mariners and was already making a name for himself as a rising star in the league.

In the bottom of the first inning, Ken Griffey Sr. stepped up to the plate as a pinch hitter for the Mariners, marking his first appearance with the team. He received a standing ovation from the crowd, acknowledging the significance of the moment. Although he didn't get a hit, the at-bat itself was historic.

Later in the game, Ken Griffey Jr. came to bat and hit a single, reaching first base safely. The Kingdome erupted with cheers as fans witnessed the father and son standing on the same field, wearing the same uniform, and playing for the same team.

The duo played together for the Mariners for a brief period that season, with Ken Griffey Sr. appearing in 51 games and batting .377, while Ken Griffey Jr. continued his ascent to stardom, hitting .300 with 22 home runs and 80 RBIs. Although their time as teammates was short-lived, the impact of that moment on August 31st, 1990, has endured in the annals of sports history.

Ken Griffey Jr. went on to have a legendary career, being named to 13 All-Star teams, winning 10 Gold Glove Awards, and belting 630 home runs. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016, receiving a record-breaking 99.32% of the vote.

The father-son duo's achievement on that day in 1990 not only showcased the unique bond between a parent and child in the world of professional sports but also highlighted the passing of the torch from one generation to the next. It remains a cherished memory for baseball fans and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Griffey family in the sport.