Pirates Manager Takes Hard Stance On Konnor Griffin Demotion Rumors originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Konnor Griffin’s highly anticipated MLB career hasn’t gotten off to a great start at the plate.
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Through his first 16 games, the Pittsburgh Pirates rookie is batting just .218/.290/.291 with no home runs, 18 strikeouts and 12 hits. With 0.0 WAR, he’s been the definition of replacement level.
Accordingly, some are wondering if the Pirates rushed the 19-year-old shortstop to the Major Leagues too quickly, especially given his lack of minor league experience. Is there a chance that Griffin could be benched or sent down soon if his disappointing start continues, similar to Hunter Barco?
Don Kelly doesn’t think so.
“I don’t even know at what point that would enter the discussion,” Kelly told Ken Rosenthal last Wednesday. “That’s not even in the realm of possibility right now. He’s going to be up here.”
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While Griffin has struggled offensively, he’s shown signs of progress with five hits and three RBI over his last four games. He’s also playing good defense and running the bases well, stealing four bags without getting caught.
“He’s doing great, honestly,” Pittsburgh’s manager added. “We’re talking about a 19-year-old kid who has, what, five games above Double A? He’s learning. We know there’s going to be a lot of development still in the big leagues.”
Griffin is still figuring things out and adjusting to the Major Leagues, and that typically doesn’t happen overnight. Young players often require patience, even the best prospects in baseball.
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