Griffey hits home run No. 597

Ken Griffey Jr. edged closer to career home run No. 600 in the first inning of Wednesday night's series opener against the Astros at Great American Ball Park.

Griffey launched a 2-0 pitch from Houston right-hander Chris Sampson into the right-field stands for career homer No. 597.

Griffey's solo homer, which traveled an estimated 424 feet, put the Reds ahead 1-0.

It was his 199th home run in a Reds uniform, moving him into sole possession of eighth place on the franchise's all-time home run list ahead of former shortstop Barry Larkin.

Sampson is the 381st different pitcher off which Griffey has homered.