Konnor Griffin, MLB's top prospect, called up by Pittsburgh Pirates

Konnor Griffin, the top prospect in Major League Baseball, is set to be called up by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The team announced the news on Thursday, one day before the team's home opener against the Baltimore Orioles. Griffin is set to make his Pirates debut at PNC Park for the game. 

Who is Konnor Griffin?

Griffin was named MLB Pipeline's No. 1 prospect in July 2025. 

The highly touted 19-year-old shortstop was reassigned to minor league camp during spring training. Last month, Pirates manager Don Kelly said the decision to leave Griffin off the opening day roster was "extremely difficult." He had a .171 batting average, four home runs and nine RBIs in 16 spring training games. 

In five games this season with Triple-A Indianapolis, he notched a .625 slugging percentage, .438 batting average, seven hits and five walks over 16 at-bats.

Griffin was selected No. 9 overall by Pittsburgh in the 2024 draft out of Jackson Preparatory School in Flowood, Mississippi.

Konnor Griffin's contract

The Pirates are reportedly in negotiations to get Griffin signed to a long-term contract. ESPN insider Buster Olney reported on Thursday that Griffin's deal is worth $140 million over nine years, though the contract has not been finalized. 

When will Konnor Griffin make his debut?

If Griffin makes his debut on Friday, he would be the first teenage position player to debut since Juan Soto in 2018.

First pitch for the Pirates' game on Friday against Baltimore is set for 4:12 p.m. at PNC Park. 

Pirates fans excited

For a team that has had its frustrations, calling up Griffin is a move that has fans looking forward to Friday.

"He will make the Pirates better," fan Larry Beekman said on Thursday. 

"He's got the talent," Beekman added. "If he's going to make the team better, why wouldn't you do it?"