Konnor Griffin hits RBI double in first MLB at-bat as Pirates beat O's

Rookie phenom Griffin drives in run, scores in Pittsburgh's home opener victory

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:49am

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A dynamic, abstract painting in neon colors depicting the powerful swing and batting motion of a baseball player, conceptually representing the excitement of Konnor Griffin's impressive MLB debut.Rookie phenom Konnor Griffin's explosive debut provides a jolt of energy for the rebuilding Pirates.Today in Pittsburgh

Highly touted Pittsburgh Pirates prospect Konnor Griffin recorded his first major league hit and RBI with a double in the second inning, helping propel the Pirates to a 5-4 win over the Baltimore Orioles in their home opener on Friday. Griffin, ranked the top prospect in baseball, also scored a run as part of a four-run second inning for the Pirates, who moved above .500 for the first time since August 2024.

Why it matters

Griffin's impressive debut is a promising sign for the rebuilding Pirates, who are hoping the 19-year-old can be a key part of their future core. The win also marks an encouraging start to the season for Pittsburgh, which is looking to build on a promising 2025 campaign and challenge for a playoff spot in the NL Central.

The details

Griffin roped a double into the left-center gap off Orioles starter Kyle Bradish on his first career at-bat, driving in Ryan O'Hearn. Griffin came around to score when Jared Triolo singled to right field. Henry Davis followed with an RBI double and Oneil Cruz drove in Davis with a single to give Pittsburgh a 4-0 lead. Griffin also walked in his second plate appearance. Bradish gave up four runs on six hits and three walks over four innings for Baltimore.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 4, 2026.
  • Griffin recorded his first MLB hit and RBI in the second inning.

The players

Konnor Griffin

A 19-year-old top prospect making his MLB debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Mitch Keller

The Pirates starting pitcher, who allowed two runs over six innings to earn the win.

Kyle Bradish

The Orioles starting pitcher, who gave up four runs in four innings and took the loss.

Gunnar Henderson

The Orioles' young star, who had three hits including a home run.

Adley Rutschman

The Orioles catcher, who drove in a run with a double.

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What they’re saying

“Konnor Griffin is the real deal. He's going to be a superstar in this league for years to come.”

— Clint Hurdle, Pirates Manager

What’s next

Griffin will look to build on his impressive debut as the Pirates continue their series against the Orioles this weekend. The young slugger will be a key part of Pittsburgh's lineup as they aim to make a playoff push this season.

The takeaway

Griffin's debut is an exciting moment for the Pirates and their fans, providing a glimpse of the team's promising future. The win also marks an encouraging start to the season for Pittsburgh, which is hoping to take a step forward and challenge for a postseason berth in 2026.