Pirates' Konnor Griffin Aims to Make MLB History

19-year-old shortstop ranked No. 1 prospect impresses in Spring Training

Feb. 24, 2026 at 9:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Konnor Griffin, the Pittsburgh Pirates' 19-year-old shortstop and the top-ranked prospect in MLB, has put together an impressive Spring Training performance, including hitting two home runs against the Boston Red Sox. His standout play has him in position to potentially make the Pirates' Opening Day roster, which would make him the youngest player to do so in over 20 years.

Why it matters

Griffin's potential roster spot would be a historic achievement, as it's extremely rare for a 19-year-old to break camp with a Major League team. If he makes the team, it would showcase the Pirates' faith in his talent and ability to contribute at the highest level at a young age.

The details

In a Spring Training game against the Red Sox, Griffin launched two home runs, including one that left the stadium at the Fenway South complex. Pirates starting pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski was impressed, noting "There's just not a whole lot of people that hit it that far at a Fenway field setup." Griffin's standout performance has him firmly in the mix to earn a spot on the Pirates' Opening Day roster.

  • On February 24, 2026, Griffin had his impressive Spring Training game against the Red Sox.

The players

Konnor Griffin

The Pittsburgh Pirates' 19-year-old shortstop and the top-ranked prospect in MLB.

Carmen Mlodzinski

The Pirates' starting pitcher who was impressed by Griffin's power display.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There's just not a whole lot of people that hit it that far at a Fenway field setup. I know it's Fenway South, but going out of the stadium at that point was super impressive.”

— Carmen Mlodzinski, Pirates starting pitcher (MLB.com)

What’s next

If Griffin continues to impress in Spring Training, he could earn a spot on the Pirates' Opening Day roster, which would make him one of the youngest players to do so in over 20 years.

The takeaway

Griffin's potential to make the Pirates' Opening Day roster at just 19 years old would be a historic achievement, showcasing the team's faith in his talent and ability to contribute at the highest level at a young age.