Pittsburgh Pirates to promote top prospect Konnor Griffin

The 19-year-old shortstop will join the big league roster for Friday's game against the Baltimore Orioles.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:20pm

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The Pittsburgh Pirates announced they will promote Konnor Griffin, their top minor league prospect, to the major league roster. Griffin, a 19-year-old shortstop, was the 9th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft and has been tearing it up in the minors, hitting .336 with 21 home runs, 26 doubles, 95 RBIs and 68 stolen bases over his first 127 games. He's expected to make his MLB debut on Friday against the Baltimore Orioles.

Why it matters

The promotion of Griffin, who was named the 2025 Minor League Player of the Year, is a major boost for the Pirates as they look to climb the standings in the NL Central. The team has struggled to find consistent production at shortstop to start the season, so the arrival of their top prospect could provide a much-needed spark.

The details

Griffin, 19, joined the Pirates as the 9th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. In the minors, he hit .336 with 21 home runs, 26 doubles, 95 RBIs and 68 stolen bases over his first 127 games. This season with Triple-A Indianapolis, he's gone 7-for-16 with 3 doubles and 3 stolen bases in his first 5 games.

  • Griffin will make his MLB debut on Friday, April 4, 2026 against the Baltimore Orioles.
  • The Pirates' 2026 home opener is set for 4:12 p.m. EDT on April 4 at PNC Park.

The players

Konnor Griffin

A 19-year-old shortstop who was the 9th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft and is considered the top prospect in the Pirates' system.

Jared Triolo

The Pirates' starting shortstop to begin the 2026 season, though he's struggled at the plate, hitting just .150 in the first 6 games.

Nick Gonzalez

A utility infielder who has seen time at shortstop, second and third base for the Pirates this season, and is hitting .333 with 2 doubles and 5 RBIs so far.

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What they’re saying

“Konnor Griffin is a special talent and we're excited to see what he can do at the major league level.”

— Ben Cherington, Pirates General Manager

What’s next

The Pirates will have to make a corresponding roster move to clear a spot for Griffin on the active roster before Friday's game against the Orioles.

The takeaway

The promotion of top prospect Konnor Griffin is a sign that the Pirates are ready to be more competitive in 2026 and are willing to give their young talent a chance to shine at the big league level.