Mariners: Griffey in prime shape

Mariners: Griffey in prime shape
Ken Griffey Jr. is carried around the field by Ryan Langerhans, left, and Matt Tuiasosopo, right, after the Mariners' 4-3 win over the Texas Rangers in Seattle on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009.
SEATTLE (AP) - Ken Griffey Jr. is ready to go for spring training.

Griffey had surgery on his left knee in October. Seattle Mariners trainer Rick Griffin says Griffey is "better now than he was at any time last year."

Griffin spent a few days with Griffey at his home in Florida this winter. The trainer said Thursday that the slugger has lost about seven pounds.

The 40-year-old Griffey hit .214 last season in his return to Seattle, with 19 homers and 57 RBIs in 117 games. He was a designated hitter for all but the first weeks of the season.