A lot is expected of the first pick of an MLB draft. A lot more was expected from Ken Griffey Jr though when the Seattle Mariners made him the first pick of the 1987 draft.

He entered baseball with just potential, but with the anticipation that he would go on to become a great. Well, as he celebrates his 47th birthday today, he can look back on a career which truly delivered.

Twenty-two seasons, 630 home runes and an endless list of accolades, the man dubbed “The Natural” left an indelible mark on the game.

He spent most of his career with the Mariners and the Cincinnati Reds, along with a short stint with the Chicago White Sox.

A 13-time All-Star, Griffey is one of the most prolific home run hitters in baseball history and was also an exceptional defender having won 10 Gold Glove Awards in centre field.

1966: Troy Aikman, is a Hall of Fame QB having guided the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl successes (50).

1968: Antonio Tarver, is a multiple-time light heavyweight champ and former cruiserweight titleist (48).

1971: Michael Strahan, is a former defensive end for the NY Giants, winning the Super Bowl in 2007 (45).

1985: Jesus Navas, is a World Cup and Euros winner with Spain and Premier League winner with Man City (31).