Konnor Griffin

Pirates manager Don Kelly said Konnor Griffin making the team's Opening Day roster would be tough.

Fantasy Impact

"It would be a tough ask," Kelly said. "Keep in mind he's only had a handful of at-bats at Double-A." It does not appear that Griffin will be on the team to open the season.

The Pirates are “strongly considering” giving Konnor Griffin a chance to win their starting shortstop job, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. The No. 9 pick in the 2024 First-Year Player Draft slashed .333/.415/.527 with 21 home runs and 65 steals across three levels in 2025, finishing the season at Double-A Altoona. Griffin won’t turn 20 until late April, and the last teenage position player to reach the majors was Juan Soto in 2018. Pittsburgh currently has a clear opening at shortstop and appears interested in adding more talent around ace Paul Skenes.

Fantasy Impact

Griffin’s potential path to the Opening Day roster is tied directly to Pittsburgh’s willingness to let him compete for the shortstop job, and the report indicates his stock in redraft leagues would rise significantly if he is given that opportunity.

Konnor Griffin told reporters he is OK after leaving Saturday's Futures Game early.

Fantasy Impact

Griffin was removed early after getting hit by a 97 mph pitch. The Pirates top prospect avoids a serious injury.

Pirates prospect Konnor Griffin was removed from the Futures Game on Saturday after he was hit by a pitch.

Fantasy Impact

Griffin took a 97 mph sinker to the hands. He was examined by the medical staff and removed from the game. He is the Pirates No. 2 overall prospect per MLB Pipeline.