An Epochal Letter from Ken Griffey Jr. to Seattle Mariners Fans: A Heartfelt Tribute to a Lifelong Bond
April 16, 2025 – Seattle, WA – In a moment that will be etched into the annals of Seattle sports history, Ken Griffey Jr., the legendary outfielder and Hall of Famer, penned a deeply moving and heartfelt letter addressed to the Seattle Mariners fans and the entire Mariners community. The letter, released on Tuesday through the Mariners’ official channels, is already being hailed as a defining moment of gratitude, legacy, and the enduring love between a city and one of its most iconic heroes.
Griffey, affectionately known as “The Kid,” expressed immense appreciation for the outpouring of love and support he’s received throughout his career and beyond. The letter comes shortly after a series of tributes hosted by the Mariners organization, including a commemorative weekend celebrating Griffey’s legacy, which saw T-Mobile Park filled with cheers, throwback jerseys, and emotional standing ovations.
In his letter, Griffey wrote:
“To the fans, the families, the kids who wore their caps backwards and believed – thank you. You made every game feel like home. You made every swing count.”
Griffey’s message reflected not only on his storied career, which included 13 All-Star appearances and 630 home runs, but also on his deep-rooted connection to Seattle. He called his time with the Mariners “a privilege,” and described the city as a place that shaped him not just as a player, but as a man, a father, and a member of a community that embraced him as one of its own.
“Seattle didn’t just watch me play – you grew with me. You believed in me even when the stakes were high, and you cheered just as loudly whether we were up by five or down by ten. That kind of loyalty, that kind of love – it’s rare. And I’ve never taken it for granted,” Griffey wrote.
The letter also touched on the future, as Griffey encouraged young fans and current players to “keep the heart of baseball alive” and to remember the importance of unity, passion, and community. He praised the current Mariners team for their resilience and heart, urging fans to continue the tradition of unwavering support.
“The future is bright,” he said. “And the spirit of this city – that underdog grit, that loyalty – it lives in every pitch, every catch, and every cheer from the stands.”
Griffey closed his message with a note of humility and everlasting connection:
“I may have retired from the game, but I’ll never retire from being a Mariner. I’ll always be part of this family – and you’ll always be a part of mine.”
The letter has since gone viral, with fans and players alike sharing their own memories of Griffey, from unforgettable home runs to spontaneous autograph moments. The Mariners organization announced that the letter will be permanently displayed at T-Mobile Park as part of a new exhibit honoring Griffey’s contributions.
In a city that has long revered him as more than just an athlete, Ken Griffey Jr.’s letter is a lasting reminder of a bond that transcends generations – a love story between a legend and his loyal fans.