Pirates Pursue Long-Term Deal with Top Prospect

ESPN’s Buster Olney provided an update on the Pittsburgh Pirates’ contract discussions with their highly-rated prospect, Konnor Griffin. Several MLB teams have recently signed their top prospects to long-term extensions, and Griffin could be next.

Contract Expectations and Comparisons

Financial Projections

The Pirates are reportedly offering a deal similar to the eight-year, $111 million extension signed by Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll in 2023. Griffin’s representatives, however, are seeking a contract comparable to the eight-year, $130 million deal outfielder Roman Anthony received from the Boston Red Sox last year.

Negotiation Timeline

Discussions between the Pirates and Griffin’s camp have been ongoing since at least March 21st, as initially reported by MLB.com’s Jonathan Mayo and Jared Greenspan. At that time, an agreement was potentially possible for “as long as nine years and more than $100 million.”

Griffin's Performance

The 19-year-old Griffin, who has yet to make his major league debut, is currently playing for Triple-A. Through four games this season, he has recorded six hits, three runs scored, and two stolen bases. Many anticipate his major league debut is imminent.

Ongoing Discussions

While the situation is fluid, both the Pirates and Griffin’s representatives appear committed to reaching an agreement that will keep the 2024 first-round draft pick with the organization for the foreseeable future. The potential contract is expected to exceed previous deals for pre-debut players.

Justin Binkowski, the reporter covering this story, is a lifelong baseball fan and former relief pitcher.