Mar 1, 2026; Jupiter, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin (75) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Pirates Begin Contract Negotiations With Konnor Griffin

Originally posted on Pittsburgh Pirates on SI
By Dominic Campbell | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 1:54 PM ET

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates have the top prospect in baseball and are doing what they can to make him the face of the franchise as soon as possible.

Buster Olney of ESPN reported that the Pirates are "deep into negotiations" with shortstop Konnor Griffin, with both parties looking at what makes sense for them and a reasonable deal.

The Pirates, according to Olney, are looking for a contract around the eight-year, $111 million contract that Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll signed back in spring 2023, whereas Griffin's team is looking for an eight-year, $130 million deal that former top prospect in outfielder Roman Anthony signed with the Boston Red Sox last season.

Griffin, the consensus top prospect in baseball, is only 19 years old, but projects as the future starting shortstop for the Pirates as early as this season.

He was incredible in his first professional season in 2025, slashing 333/.415/.527 for an OPS of .942 in 122 games this season, with 161 hits, 23 doubles, four triples, 21 home runs, 94 RBI, 50 walks to 122 strikeouts and 65 stolen bases on 13 attempts.

Griffin can do just about everything, with a great bat, strong arm and glove and speed that makes him a threat on the basepaths.

This article first appeared on Pittsburgh Pirates on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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