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Griffey doesn't distance himself nearly as much as he used to. I think he can be a leader for this team but this team needs much more than just a leader. I really don't believe the whole distancing thing with the reds, because I know for a fact that he took in some of the young outfielders from the reds (especially Dunn) under his wing and would have him over to his house all the time. I think Griffey gets a bad rap because of his incredibly bad luck.
As far as Kearns goes, I think Pena has much more potential than him. A few scouts have compared Pena to a young Mark McGwire in terms of strength (I think they mean comparable to McGwire's strength after he started "hulking up"). Kearns was good until Major league pitchers adjusted to him, but he has tapered off considerably. He did have a decent season last year until he was hurt, but he hasn't been able to do anything since his injury. He was given a shot, then benched for Pena, and now has another shot with Pena hurt. Between the two, I put Pena in the lineup everyday. How long can you wait around on Kearns? Especially when you have a guy like Pena who is younger and is producing much more. Kearns may be a better fielder, as Pena does need to work on his defense, but this Reds team needs offense more than anything (except maybe pitching).
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