The Pittsburgh Pirates’ Connor Griffin continues to live up to his reputation as Major League Baseball’s top prospect. Griffin followed up two home runs against the Boston Red Sox on Thursday with a home run against the Cardinals on Sunday.
The 19-year-old told reporters after the game that he was starting to feel more comfortable. Griffin is batting .214 this spring.
advertise
“I feel comfortable,” Griffin said. “I’m really working hard out there and taking each game one at a time. I’m enjoying where I’m at but still need to keep working and be ready for tomorrow’s game.”
Griffin is a quick learner. After a year of reclassification, challenge yourself in high school. He was selected with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 draft out of Jackson Prep in Mississippi. Last year, he spent time in Low-A, High-A and Double-A. Griffin hit 338/.396/.536 in Low-A, .325/.432/.510 in High-A, and .337/.418/.542 in Double-A.
Griffin is expected to start the season in Double-A, having played in just 21 games last season. The 6-foot-3, 222-pound Griffin has high expectations. Keith Law of The Athletic called Griffin the most exciting prospect in the minors since Mike Trout and ESPN’s Jeff Passan called him the next teen superstar.
advertise
Despite the comparisons and the immediate success the Pirates had with young superstar pitcher Paul Skenes, head coach Don Kelly tried to temper expectations for Griffin.
“We have to remember he’s 19,” Kelly told reporters. “It’s about continuing to push him and let him be himself and play freely.”
With limited reliable at-bat options in the Pirates’ offense, Griffin could be a young option if called up to the major league roster.
