[top6]

Well, I have to be honest I found the whole thing disturbing. I turned on the TV at 9:50 or so, hoping to catch pregame and JR's first at bat - which I assumed would be accompanied by a long standing ovation. Instead, I see Griffey giving a speech - just minutes before the game is supposed to start. That speech included what appeared to be a pep talk to the current Mariners - in other words, THE TEAM THE REDS WERE SUPPOSED TO BEAT. I really didn't like it at all; I guess I just thought he would bat and they would clap and it would be cool. It just seems to be me like he will have plenty of chances to give speeches after he retires, and doing so right before a game just sort of rubbed me the wrong way.

I like Jr., but that sort of turned me off. I know the Reds' season is over, but I still want them to win, and more importantly I want them to want to win - and part of that is not giving encouragement to the other team right before a game.

I'm not a Jr. basher, and I like him, but I didn't think this was handled well. Anyone else fee the same way?