The run that Griffin went on was incredible. The 19-year-old shortstop hit .333/.415/.527 with 21 home runs and 65 stolen bases as he flew through three minor league levels in his first professional season.
“The credit goes to the kid,” Pirates farm director Michael Chernow said. “He’s obviously extremely talented. He has really high character and is a phenomenal worker.”
“He’s doing everything to maximize the physical gifts that he has, but he’s a kid who wants to learn about the game of baseball. He asks great questions.”
In his second game as a pro, Griffin went 0-for-4 with four strikeouts for Low-A Bradenton. He went down on strikes in 12 of his first 21 at-bats but was able to adjust and later dominate the Florida State League.
Chernow credits Griffin’s high aptitude with his rapid climb to High-A Greensboro and finally Double-A Altoona. When an issue arises, he diagnoses it and attacks it to get back on track.
“He’s physically gifted, and he understands where the challenges are, which allows him to make adjustments really quick,” Chernow said.
Griffin also struggled in his first few games at Double-A, striking out in five of his first eight at-bats. Again, he identified the issue and quickly made adjustments and finished with a 23.5% strikeout rate in 21 games at the level.
As competition improved, Griffin continued to rise to the challenge. With the season winding down and the games piling up, he only got better. During the month of September, Griffin hit .359 and collected hits in nine of 10 games.
“I wouldn’t say he’s like a perfectionist,” Chernow continued. “What I mean is he wants to be great, and there’s no controllable stone unturned for him. He’s going to attack whatever he needs to attack to get better every single day, and that’s what he’s shown us.”