Potential extension for top prospect Konnor Griffin could get him on Pirates roster faster

Konnor Griffin has yet to celebrate his 20th birthday or make his major league debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates. That does not mean he will not be the shortstop of the present and future.

Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that the Pirates and Griffin are mutually interested in a long-term extension. Hiles also noted that it would be possible for the two sides to agree to an extension that would give the Pirates extra years of team control while Griffin could hypothetically reach free agency in his prime.

While Griffin is the consensus top prospect in baseball, he only has 21 games of experience above A-ball. He showed his immense potential as he rocketed through three levels in 2025, posting a combined .333/.415/.527 batting line with 21 homers and 23 doubles in his 563 plate appearances while stealing 65 bases.

Long-term extension could get Konnor Griffin on Pittsburgh Pirates roster faster

He may not be in the minor leagues for much longer. There had been speculation that Griffin could be a part of the Pirates' Opening Day roster, though manager Don Kelly downplayed the possibility at the start of spring training. Griffin, meanwhile, has been doing his part to force the issue as he has impressed in Grapefruit League play thus far.

If the two sides can agree on an extension, Griffin's path to the majors could become easier. The Pirates would not need to worry about manipulating his service time to potentially add an additional year of team control. 

The Pirates have improved the lineup, though shortstop remains a concern. Light hitting Nick Gonzalez is currently atop the Pirates depth chart at short but is best served as a reserve infielder. A long-term extension could push Gonzalez to the bench with Griffin taking over as a potential cornerstone of the franchise.