The future is now for the Pittsburgh Pirates, as 19-year-old shortstop Konnor Griffin will make his MLB debut this Friday against the Baltimore Orioles.
Griffin, the No. 1 overall prospect in baseball right now, showcased his superstar potential throughout the 2025 season. In fact, the former first-round pick finished the year with an incredible .333 batting average, 21 home runs, 94 RBI and 65 stolen bases. Although he struggled in Spring Training, it didn’t take long for him to bounce back.
Advertisement
In just five games in Triple-A this year, Griffin hit .438 with three doubles and five walks. His production was so impressive that Pittsburgh felt the need to call him up for Friday’s home opener.
Of course, MLB fans in the Baltimore and Pittsburgh markets will get to watch Griffin’s big-league debut. What about everyone else?
Luckily for those interested in watching Griffin’s debut, it’ll be aired on MLB Network at around 4:12 p.m. ET.
Advertisement
Clearly, the MLB believes Griffin will be a huge draw for several markets – not just Pittsburgh.
Mar 1, 2026; Jupiter, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin (75) returns to the dugout against the St. Louis Cardinals during the second inning at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images.
(© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images.)Pirates make financial commitment to Griffin.
Griffin will be the first teenaged position player in the MLB since Juan Soto back in 2018. That’s not bad company for the talented shortstop.
Even though Griffin hasn’t even recorded his first game for the Pirates, the front office is about to make him a very wealthy 19-year-old.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Pirates are getting close to finalizing a nine-year, $140 million deal with Griffin.
Advertisement
Will Griffin live up to the hype? Only time will tell.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Apr 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.