Pittsburgh Pirates make expected move with Konnor Griffin

Despite the buzz surrounding Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin, he was expected to begin the season in the minor leagues. That became official on Saturday.

The Pirates announced that Griffin was reassigned to their minor league camp. They now have 34 players on the major league side of spring training as they look to cut down to their 26-man roster for Opening Day.

Griffin's spring training performance was a mixed bag. He had just seven hits in his 43 plate appearances, drawing only two walks with 11 strikeouts. However, four of those seven hits were home runs as he showed his plus power, which made him the consensus top prospect in baseball.

Konnor Griffin may return to Pittsburgh Pirates soon enough

There is a case to be made for Griffin needing more time in the minors aside from his uneven performance in the Grapefruit League. While he impressed during his time in the minors in 2025, he only has that one season in professional baseball. Griffin made stops at three levels in the Pirates system, but he has only 21 games of experience above A-ball. 

It is also possible that Griffing is in Pittsburgh in the near future. The Pirates and Griffin have mutual interest in a long-term extension, although there is no indication that the two sides are close to such a deal. If one comes together, the Pirates would not need to worry about manipulating his service time and could bring Griffin to the majors as soon as the pen hits the paper.

For a team that appears serious about contending, having the best players on the major league roster would be a necessity. Griffin, despite his possible growing pains, has far more upside than infielders Nick Gonzalez or Jared Triolo. A hot start in the minors, coupled with slow starts for either Gonzalez or Triolo, could force the Pirates' hand as well.