http://ppt.cc/sxEr
Griffey, whose excellence and effervescence thrilled legions of fans
throughout his 22-year career, received the Commissioner's Historic
Achievement Award, which recognizes achievements and contributions of
historical significance. Griffey received the award at Rangers Ballpark in
Arlington during a news conference Sunday preceding Game 4 of the World
Series.
Griffey's body of work was certainly significant. He made 13 All-Star teams,
earned 10 Gold Gloves for his defensive prowess in center field, won the
American League Most Valuable Player Award in 1997 and hit 630 home runs,
fifth all-time. He accomplished enough in the midst of his career to be named
to Major League Baseball's All-Century Team in '99. At the time, he was a
month shy of turning 30.
But Griffey, whose father had an impressive 19-year Major League career as an
outfielder, belonged in the rare breed of players who transcended their
statistics. On the field, he captivated millions (he drew a record 50,044,176
All-Star votes) with his flair for the spectacular, picturesque swing and
obvious enthusiasm. Off the field, he devoted considerable time to numerous
charities