Pirates Call Up Top Prospect Konnor Griffin

The Pittsburgh Pirates are promoting 19-year-old shortstop Konnor Griffin, widely considered the top prospect in baseball, before their home opener against the Baltimore Orioles on Friday. The news was confirmed by a person familiar with the decision who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, as the roster move was not yet official.

Griffin's Rapid Rise

The question surrounding Griffin wasn't if he would reach the major leagues this year, but when. He recently excelled at Triple-A Indianapolis, hitting .438 with three doubles, one RBI, and three stolen bases. This performance accelerated his promotion to the big leagues.

Draft and Minor League Success

Griffin was selected with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 first-year player draft. He quickly progressed through Pittsburgh’s farm system, demonstrating exceptional talent at every level. In 122 games across Single-A and Double-A in 2025, he batted .333 with 21 home runs, 94 RBIs, and 65 stolen bases.

Spring Training and Roster Implications

Griffin received an invitation to the Pirates’ big-league camp and was a late cut before the season began. During spring training, he showcased his power with three home runs – the most by a teenager in spring training in at least two decades – although he also had over a dozen strikeouts.

With Griffin’s arrival, Jared Triolo, a Gold Glove winner as a utility player, is likely to move to third base. The Pirates had been in discussions with Griffin regarding a long-term contract extension, but the call-up was based on his performance and potential, not the contract negotiations.

Pirates' Current Standing

The Pirates currently have a 3-3 record after taking two of three games in Cincinnati. The team is built around a strong young starting rotation, led by reigning Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, who secured his first win of the season on Wednesday.

Pittsburgh significantly improved its offense during the offseason, acquiring All-Star second baseman Brandon Lowe and signing first baseman/outfielder Ryan O’Hearn and designated hitter Marcell Ozuna. Lowe already has three home runs this season, contributing to the Pirates’ league-leading total of 10 home runs through six games.