Griffey, Mariners finally home
Tuesday, April 14, 2009 10:17 AM PDT
SEATTLE (AP) — The surprising Mariners are finally in Seattle for their latest home opener since 1982.
Tuesday afternoon’s game against the Los Angeles Angels at Safeco Field will be Ken Griffey Jr.’s first home game for the Mariners since Sept. 26, 1999.
The 39-year-old slugger has the same corner locker inside ‘‘The House that Junior Built’’ that Griffey had for half a season, before Seattle granted his request and traded him to Cincinnati nine years ago.
This season’s home opener didn’t sell out until after Griffey signed in February.
Harold Reynolds will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
The three-time Gold Glove second baseman played for the Mariners from 1983-92 and was a mentor of Griffey’s.
The pregame ceremonies will also include third baseman Adrian Beltre and outfielder Ichiro Suzuki receiving their Gold Glove awards for outstanding defense in 2008.