Ken Griffey Jr.’s career was a masterclass in power and grace, and his home runs weren’t just hits—they were events. His unmistakable swing and game-changing presence created unforgettable memories in baseball history. These 15 home runs made him among baseball’s most iconic legends.
The First Career Homer – April 10, 1989
Setting the tone for an extraordinary career, Ken Griffey Jr.’s first major league home run came in his second game. At just 19 years old, he hit a solo shot against the White Sox and gave a glimpse of the greatness to come. It was the start of a legendary journey.
Back-to-Back with His Dad – September 14, 1990
Several father-son pairs have played in Major League Baseball, but only one duo hit back-to-back home runs—Griffey Jr. and his dad. As Mariners teammates, they achieved this incredible feat against the California Angels.
Home Run Derby Dominance – 1994
Griffey put on a show at Yankee Stadium during the 1994 Home Run Derby and sent a towering shot into the upper deck. He went on to win again in 1998 and 1999, which made him the first player to win the Derby three times—a record that still stands.
Griffey’s First Walk-Off Home Run – June 23, 1993
His first career walk-off home run came dramatically and lifted the Mariners to a victory over the New York Yankees. This game-winning shot became the first of many clutch moments in his career, which showed early signs of the dominance that would define his time in the league.
The 8th Straight Home Run – July 28, 1993
At just 23 years old, Griffey’s incredible power was on full display in 1993 when he homered in eight consecutive games, tying a major league record. He matched the feats of Dale Long with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1956 and Don Mattingly of the New York Yankees in 1987.
Blast at Camden Yards – July 12, 1993
During the 1993 Home Run Derby at Camden Yards, he launched an incredible shot that struck the famous B&O Warehouse, which made him the first player ever to hit the building. The Orioles later marked the historic spot with a commemorative plaque.
Upper Deck Shot at Yankee Stadium – May 30, 1994
Griffey put on a show at Yankee Stadium and sent a towering home run into the elusive upper deck—a spot few players ever reached. This incredible blast left fans in awe and became one of the standout moments of his career.
Game-Tying Blast in ALDS – October 6, 1995
In the 1995 ALDS against the Yankees, Griffey hit a clutch home run to tie Game 5 and kept the Mariners’ playoff hopes alive. The ability to deliver under pressure was on full display, and the home run helped set up the Mariners’ historic series win.
The Signature Swing in Coors Field – August 9, 1996
Griffey’s smooth swing was in full force during a 1996 game at Coors Field, where he sent a home run sailing deep into the Colorado night. His effortless power was a reminder of why he was one of the most feared hitters in the game.
Historic Blast in the 1997 All-Star Game – July 8, 1997
He put on a show in the 1997 All-Star Game where he launched a towering home run off the Cleveland Indians’ Jaret Wright. The blast highlighted his star power on a national stage and earned him the game’s MVP award.
Game-Winning Shot in Baltimore – September 14, 1997
Late in the 1997 season, Griffey delivered a game-winning home run against the Baltimore Orioles. His blast, which broke a tie in extra innings, propelled the Mariners closer to the postseason.
500th Career Home Run – June 20, 2004
On Father’s Day in 2004, he hit his 500th career home run with his dad proudly watching. The Reds star became the 20th player to achieve this—a powerful display of his talent and another special father-son memory.
Walk-Off in Cincinnati – April 10, 2007
As a Cincinnati Red, this legend delivered one of his most memorable moments with a walk-off home run against the Chicago Cubs. In the bottom of the 11th inning, Griffey’s blast sealed the victory, sending Reds fans into a frenzy.
600th Career Home Run – June 9, 2008
Griffey made history by hitting his 600th home run against the Florida Marlins, joining an exclusive group of MLB legends. He became the sixth player ever to achieve this milestone—following legends like Barry Bonds and Hank Aaron.
Homer in Final At-Bat as a Mariner – May 31, 2010
In his final at-bat for the Seattle Mariners, Griffey delivered an emotional farewell with a home run. The crowd roared as their hometown hero rounded the bases for the last time. This was the perfect ending to his journey with the Mariners.
15 Home Runs That Defined Ken Griffey Jr.’s Career