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Pittsburgh Pirates promote Konnor Griffin, the top prospect in baseball, for their home opener against the Baltimore Orioles. At 19 years and 344 days old, Griffin is set to make history as the first teenage position player to debut since Juan Soto in 2018. He’s in talks for a record-setting long-term contract extension, which could impact the team's draft pick eligibility through the prospect promotion incentive.
Griffin shined in Triple-A Indianapolis, batting .438/.571/.625 over five games with three doubles and three stolen bases. During spring training, he led with four home runs and nine RBIs despite hitting .171/.261/.488. Selected ninth overall in the 2024 draft from Jackson Prep in Mississippi, Griffin showcased his skills last season, hitting .333/.415/.527 with 21 home runs and 65 stolen bases across three minor league levels.
His debut adds firepower to a Pirates lineup that has bolstered itself through free agency, signing first baseman/outfielder Ryan O'Hearn and designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, along with acquiring second baseman Brandon Lowe. With ace Paul Skenes leading the rotation, the Pirates aim to contend this season. Griffin joins an elite group of teenage debuts, alongside Bryce Harper and Mike Trout. The future looks bright in Pittsburgh.
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