Pirates Sign Teen Shortstop to Record-Breaking Deal

19-year-old Konnor Griffin inks 9-year, $140 million contract with Pittsburgh

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:25am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a baseball player's dynamic movements, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes representing the Pirates' commitment to their young prospect.The Pirates' record-breaking investment in teenage shortstop Konnor Griffin signals their hope for a new franchise cornerstone to lead the team back to the playoffs.San Diego Today

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed 19-year-old shortstop Konnor Griffin to a record-breaking 9-year, $140 million contract, the largest deal in the team's history. Griffin, a former first-round draft pick, has impressed in his brief major league debut, hitting .333 with 21 home runs and 65 stolen bases in the minors before being called up to the big leagues.

Why it matters

The Pirates are hoping Griffin can be a cornerstone player as they try to end their over decade-long playoff drought. The massive contract shows the team's commitment to building around the young phenom, who has been described as a 'five-tool' talent and one of the most exciting prospects in baseball since Mike Trout.

The details

The deal includes escalators that could raise the total value to $150 million. Griffin sprinted through the Pirates' farm system, hitting .333 with 21 home runs, 94 RBIs, and 65 stolen bases. He made his MLB debut just last week and has already made an impact, including an RBI double in his first at-bat and a two-run single in a win over the Padres.

  • The Pirates selected Griffin with the 9th overall pick in the 2024 amateur draft.
  • Griffin was one of the final cuts during the Pirates' spring training last month.
  • The Pirates called Griffin up to the majors after just a week in Triple-A.

The players

Konnor Griffin

A 19-year-old shortstop who the Pirates signed to a record-breaking 9-year, $140 million contract. Griffin is considered a 'five-tool' talent and one of the most exciting prospects in baseball.

Ben Cherington

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates who said the 'ingredients' were in place for a long-term deal with Griffin.

Paul Skenes

The reigning NL Cy Young winner who called Griffin 'a big leaguer through and through'.

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What they’re saying

“a big leaguer through and through”

— Paul Skenes, Reigning NL Cy Young winner

What’s next

The Pirates are hoping Griffin can help the team end its over decade-long playoff drought. The team has made the postseason only three times since 1992.

The takeaway

This record-breaking contract for a 19-year-old shortstop highlights the Pirates' commitment to building around one of baseball's most exciting young talents as they aim to end their long playoff drought and return to postseason contention.