In the world of professional athletes, the transition into retirement often leads to uncharted territories. For MLB Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., a significant portion of his post-professional baseball life has seen him venture into the realm of photography, capturing moments that resonate on and off the field.
Fulfilling Deferred Deals: A Unique Pay Structure
Despite retiring over a decade ago, Ken Griffey Jr.’s financial ties to his former team, the Cincinnati Reds, remain strong. A cleverly structured nine-year, $112.5 million deferred deal ensures that Griffey continues to rake in more than $3.5 million annually. This financial arrangement places him among the highest-paid players on the Reds’ payroll for the year, as per FOX 29 Philadelphia.
Finding Focus Behind the Lens
Griffey’s journey into photography started post-retirement and has seen him involved in high-profile gigs, the latest being capturing action shots of soccer superstar Lionel Messi and the Inter Miami’s MLS match against Nashville MC. According to reports by Sports Illustrated, Griffey, with a camera in hand, has often been seen on the sidelines of various sports events, cherishing the chance to freeze moments in time. His affinity for photography isn’t confined to big sporting events; he admits to relishing the opportunity to capture his children’s sporting endeavors, finding the expressions on their faces priceless.
Trailblazing a Path: Not the Lone Ranger
Griffey isn’t the only MLB stalwart to transition into photography post-retirement. Legendary pitcher Randy Johnson shares a similar passion, often seen capturing moments at NFL games. Johnson, a notable figure in the 2001 World Series, honed his photography skills during college and has since built an impressive portfolio encompassing sports, wildlife, and live music events.
Adding More Frames to the Album
In a recent venture, Griffey was seen working the sidelines during a game between the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, adding to his growing portfolio of sporting events. This gig followed a series of notable assignments, including capturing action shots during Inter Miami’s match against Nashville SC, and covering events like the 2015 Fiesta Bowl, the 2023 Home Run Derby, and various NFL games. Griffey’s post-retirement journey exemplifies a seamless blend of professional athletic history and a newfound passion for photography.
