DaytonDailyNews.com

I'm usually a softie when it comes to honoring sports legends in the twilights of their careers, but I surprisingly made it through Ken Griffey Jr. Night not only without a lump in my throat, but also without a single goose bump emerging on my arms.

The Cincinnati Reds did a commendable job in paying tribute to Griffey's 600th home run in a pregame ceremony Tuesday, June 17. It's just that the fans never quite seemed to be into it, and Griffey himself didn't appear particularly touched.

The event drew a relatively paltry crowd of 26,906, and many, typically, didn't arrive until after the game began. When Griffey was introduced, he was given a standing ovation that lasted all of 40 seconds. Heck, a starting pitcher gets a heartier cheer than that when he leaves a game with a lead after seven innings.

The disconnect between the fans and Griffey has been puzzling, given that he's one of the all-time greats, but I guess it probably stems from the fact that he just hasn't done enough as a Red as a result of injuries. He's had 202 home runs in eight-plus years, and the club appears destined for its eighth straight losing season.

Griffey told the crowd he'd like to remain in Cincinnati long enough to win a World Series, but he might be better served by returning to Seattle.

The odds of winning a crown there are probably higher, and at least he'd be able to take his final bows before fans who truly appreciate him.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125

or

dharris@DaytonDailyNews.com.