Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Paul Skenes Comments on Pirates' Konnor Griffin Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Apr 2, 2026 1:36 PM ET

Paul Skenes has had a shaky start to the 2026 MLB season. Through two starts, the two-time All-Star has a 1-1 record, 9.53 ERA and 1.94 WHIP, while allowing seven hits, six earned runs and four walks in 5.2 innings.

While the reigning NL Cy Young winner looks to turn things around, the Pirates are still 3-3 and gearing up for their home opener at PNC Park. Pittsburgh is hosting the Baltimore Orioles for a three-game series, beginning on Friday.

Before that, though, the Pirates announced on Thursday that they will be calling up shortstop Konnor Griffin to make his MLB debut. At 19 years old, he is the top prospect according to MLB Pipeline.

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes (30).© Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Skenes has been in a similar situation as Griffin, making his debut in 2024 as the No. 3-ranked prospect. On the same day as the announcement, the pitcher appeared on "The Pat McAfee Show," giving his opinion on Griffin and his upcoming debut.

"It's great, he's super mature," Skenes said. "He's 19 right now, and you would never know it when talking to him. The most mature 19-year-old you're ever going to meet in your life.... He's gonna bring an energy and you know, obviously, a skill set to Pittsburgh that's exciting."

"I'm fired up that Konnor Griffin is making his debut on Friday..

He's gonna bring a lot of energy and his play speaks for itself" ~ @Paul_Skenes #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/KAtZuRet5k
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 2, 2026

Griffin faces high expectations leading up to his debut. In 500 career at-bats in the minor leagues, he's slashed .336/.420/.530 with a .950 OPS. The shortstop has tallied 168 hits, 21 home runs, 55 walks, 68 stolen bases and 121 runs scored.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reports that he will start at shortstop to open up the series on Friday against the Orioles. The game is scheduled to begin at 4:12 p.m. ET at PNC Park.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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