Griffey Jr. pop-in at Hank Aaron Invitational leaves players in awe

VERO BEACH, Fla. -- At week 1 of the 2024 Hank Aaron Invitational, participants were treated to a visit from one of the best who ever played the game -- Hall of Famer and MLB-MLBPA youth development ambassador Ken Griffey Jr.

The Jackie Robinson Training Complex hosts the invitational, which boasts more than 100 players with diverse backgrounds from around the country. They receive pro-level mentorship, development and special-guest instruction -- including from Griffey Jr. who, despite his iconic status, is relatable among young people.

“The things that I learned at 14 helped throughout my career,” he said. “To be able to help kids achieve their dreams and goals as I was able to. ... I mean, you talk about giving back, this is part of it.”

Week 1 participants were part of the high school graduating classes of 2027 and '28. with players representing much of the young potential rising through the MLB development system.

Dexter McCleon Jr., a pitcher and outfielder in the class of 2028, is one of these rising talents.

“I’ve met new people, new coaches, reconnected with some coaches, and I even met Ken Griffey Jr.,” McCleon Jr. said. “I never thought I’d meet him; it was the best feeling ever.”

Parker Robinson, a shortstop in the class of 2027 also reflected on his chance to meet “The Kid”.

“It was a dream come true,” Robinson said. “I've always wanted to meet him; [I've seen] him on YouTube with his hat backwards in the Home Run Derby.”

Robinson, like the rest of the young athletes in awe of the Hall of Famer, made sure to pick up on advice passed on by the MLB legend.

“He taught me to have a strong mindset and be really prepared,” Robinson said.

In his more recent role as the Youth Development Foundation global ambassador, Griffey Jr. holds an important position outside of being a player to try and emulate: a catalyst for youth interest in diamond sports.

“My goal, being an ambassador, is to get as many kids in the big leagues [and] utilize the highways that we can provide for them,” Griffey said.

Jean Lee Batrus, executive director of the MLB-MLBPA YDF, spoke about the impact a visit from a former player, especially a Hall of Famer, can have on the athletes.

“It’s really important to have him here inspiring our young players in Week 1,” she said. “It's a critical moment because these young players need to look up to mentors and Hall of Famers to inspire them in this early stage.”

And if there were ever a player to look up to, Griffey Jr. is high on the list. Not just because of his playing resume, but because he understands events like the Hank Aaron Invitational are not just about player development, but personal growth as well.

“Not everyone's going to be a big league ballplayer, but they could still work in baseball and be good, solid people in society,” Griffey Jr. said. “There are still a couple hundred jobs with these teams that need to be filled, and you can still work around the game that you love.”

The Hank Aaron Invitational runs through Saturday, with the classes of 2025 and '26 participating in Week 2, after which the top 44 players will travel to Atlanta for the “44” Hank Aaron Invitational Showcase Game at Truist Park in Atlanta.