Ken Griffey Jr. lifts Stephen Tucker, 7, into position for batting. (Jeff Swinger photos) | ZOOM |

        BLUE ASH - Philip Cenedella of Fort Mitchell said it was his dream to one day meet his favorite baseball player, Ken Griffey Jr. That dream came true Saturday for the 11-year-old slugger, who was among dozens of children treated to a batting clinic with the Reds outfielder and his father, Ken Sr., at the Crosley Field replica in Blue Ash.

        Eleven contest winners were chosen to take part in the slugfest, and each could bring three friends. Others at nearby parks joined in the fun.

        “He is the best guy,” Philip said after fielding some baseballs from the Reds star. “It was so cool.”

        The young ballplayers received first-hand instruction on batting techniques and other fundamentals. More important, they got autographs and took photos with Griffey, who reminded them to “always keep your eye on the ball.”

        “This is great,” Griffey said, still on the diamond after working with the children. “They are the future of this sport, of any sport. Any time with the kids is great.”

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        Holding a freshly autographed baseball, Jeremy Williams, 11, of Forest Park, said Griffey told him to “swing for the top of the ball.”

        “He the best baseball player,” he said.

        His father, David Williams, 36, was impressed that the Major Leaguer took time to share his wisdom with the kids.

        “I wish all kids could have this experience,” he said.

        Griffey, who is suffering from a strained right hamstring, has been on the disabled list since June 25. Team doctors said last week he should return to the team soon.

        Even with talk of a baseball strike looming, the children were unfazed, saying they wouldn't hold it against the players.

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        “I would still watch it next year,” said Sarah Blumberg, 9, of Loveland. “But I wouldn't like that (a strike).”

        Gabe Stiver, 8 of Loveland, said he'd “miss watching them hit and playing baseball.”

        The promotional batting clinic was sponsored by Cincinnati Bell and WLW-AM radio.

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