Pirates SS Battle 2026: Konnor Griffin vs Gonzales Fantasy Outlook

The 19-year-old Griffin has impressed so far in spring training, swatting 4 HR and driving in 9 runs. However, his batting average is just .184, prompting skeptics to call for at least a couple of weeks of minor league action to be major league ready.

Gonzales, on the opposite end of the spectrum, is hitting .390 in spring training, with no HRs and 2 RBI in 26 plate appearances.

Triolo has played the most SS on the Pirates this spring, flashing impressive defense while hitting .265 with no HR in 38 plate appearances. Last season, he played every infield position over 107 games for the Pirates. Hitting .227, he contributed 7 HR, 24 RBI, 41 runs and 13 steals. His versatility makes him a nice MLB depth piece, but not a fantasy relevant talent.

Breaking Down the Three Candidates

Griffin provides the clear highest upside among the trio, though what he will accomplish in his initial major league season is unclear. He’s been described as a generational talent with a mix of great power, speed and arm strength. If he wins the job out of spring, Griffin has the talent to be a top 10 shortstop – already a strong position – in the major leagues.

Gonzales has the highest floor for fantasy baseball players among the three players. Already an under-the-radar talent, he makes consistent contact and is the most reliable bat in this race. Over his 3 seasons in the majors, Gonzales has collected 14 HR, 92 RBI, 93 Runs and 5 Steals over 923 plate appearances. He has hit .257 in his career, certainly good enough to fill the position if Griffin needs more time at AAA.

Triolo is a part-time SS only, though he can contribute anywhere on the infield. He’s a veteran presences on the team and provides plus-level defense wherever he plays. Again, he is not fantasy relevant but you sure do like him on your major-league team.

Fantasy Strategies for Managers

Unless you’re in a deep league or an NL-only league, Griffin is the only draftable talent among this threesome. He is being drafted inside the top 200, as fantasy managers believe he will be up with the big league club quickly, even if he starts in AAA. Check his ADP in your league’s platform, paying special attention to his recent rise or fall in that number.

Gonzales has an ADP of … get ready for this ... 1,183. If he’s being drafted at a number with a comma, you certainly don’t need to think much about him. If Griffin does not make the team, Gonzales might be a waiver wire claim, but one whom you will likely cut by May when Griffin is recalled.

Triolo is being drafted at 408 on average, a testament to his positional flexibility that can be so useful in many fantasy baseball leagues. He can certainly play several roles on an NL-only team.

People Want To Know More About The Pirates' SS Situation

Who is the Pirates Opening Day shortstop in 2026?
Still open between Konnor Griffin, Nick Gonzales, and Jared Triolo.

Is Konnor Griffin making the Pirates roster in 2026?
Strong chance after four spring home runs, but the decision remains unsettled.

What is Konnor Griffin’s fantasy value?
He offers the highest upside at shortstop with power and speed if he wins the job.

How is Nick Gonzales performing in spring 2026?
He is hitting .390 with strong contact and profiles as the safest bat in the competition.

Should I draft Jared Triolo in fantasy baseball?
Only in deeper formats for positional flexibility; his ceiling is limited.

When will the Pirates decide their shortstop for 2026?
Likely in the final days of spring training, just before Opening Day.