Pirates DFA Former Red Sox Infielder Amid Konnor Griffin Promotion

MLB's top prospect Konnor Griffin will make his big-league debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of the Pirates' black and gold colors and the Orioles' orange and black colors, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.The Pirates' roster shakeup ahead of their home opener signals a shift towards the future as top prospect Konnor Griffin makes his MLB debut.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Pirates have designated former Boston Red Sox infielder Enmanuel Valdez for assignment and promoted top prospect Konnor Griffin to the major league roster. Valdez, 27, played 76 games for the Red Sox in 2024 before being traded to the Pirates in December of that year.

Why it matters

This move signals the Pirates' commitment to developing their top young talent, with Griffin seen as a key part of the team's future. Valdez's designation also highlights the competitive nature of MLB rosters, where even experienced players can be quickly replaced by up-and-coming prospects.

The details

In a corresponding move to Griffin's promotion, the Pirates designated Enmanuel Valdez for assignment. Valdez, who was acquired from the Red Sox in 2024, played 76 games for Boston that season, hitting 6 home runs. The 27-year-old infielder never appeared in a game for the Astros, who originally signed him in 2015, before being traded to the Red Sox.

  • Konnor Griffin will make his MLB debut on Friday, April 3, 2026, during the Pirates' home opener against the Baltimore Orioles.
  • Enmanuel Valdez was designated for assignment on Friday, April 3, 2026 to make room for Griffin on the Pirates' 40-man roster.

The players

Konnor Griffin

The Pittsburgh Pirates' top prospect, who will make his much-anticipated MLB debut on Friday.

Enmanuel Valdez

A 27-year-old infielder who was designated for assignment by the Pirates to make room for Griffin on the roster. Valdez previously played 76 games for the Boston Red Sox in 2024 before being traded to Pittsburgh.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“ROSTER MOVE: The Pittsburgh Pirates today selected the contract of infielder Konnor Griffin from Triple-A Indianapolis. Infielder Enmanuel Valdez was designated for assignment to make room for Griffin on the 40-man roster.”

— Pittsburgh Pirates, Official Team Account

What’s next

The Pirates will now look to Griffin to provide a boost to their lineup as they aim to contend in the NL Central this season. Valdez will either be claimed off waivers by another team or elect free agency if he clears waivers.

The takeaway

This move highlights the Pirates' commitment to their top prospects and the constant roster churn in Major League Baseball, where even experienced players can be quickly replaced by up-and-coming talent.