Sports
Konnor Griffin Assigned to Minors; Pirates Opening Roster Awaits
Konnor Griffin, the Pittsburgh Pirates' top prospect, was reassigned to minor league camp on Saturday. The 19-year-old shortstop showcased skills during recent weeks that earned him the title of baseball’s No. 1 overall prospect, according to MLB Pipeline.
Pirates manager Don Kelly acknowledged the difficulty of excluding Griffin from the season-opening roster. Kelly told reporters that Griffin demonstrated professional maturity during the big league camp. Kelly expressed excitement about Griffin's future with the Pirates. In 16 Grapefruit League games, Griffin hit four home runs and nine RBIs. However, he had a .171 batting average with 13 strikeouts across 41 at-bats. Kelly suggested that returning to the minors could benefit the infielder.
Key Facts
- Konnor Griffin was reassigned to minor league camp.
- Griffin is considered the top prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline.
- Don Kelly said leaving Griffin off the opening roster was a difficult decision.
- Kelly noted Griffin's maturity level as a 19-year-old in the major league camp.
- In Grapefruit League games, Griffin recorded four home runs and nine RBIs.
- Griffin's batting average was .171 with 13 strikeouts in 41 at-bats.
- Kelly believes returning to the minors will allow Griffin to reassert himself.