Konnor Griffin hits two home runs as Pirates prospect shines against Red Sox
Konnor Griffin underlined his status as baseball’s top prospect by hitting two home runs for the Pittsburgh Pirates in a 16-7 spring training victory over the Boston Red Sox.
The 19-year-old shortstop is rated as the consensus number one prospect in the sport and showcased his power immediately against Boston newcomer Ranger Suarez.
Griffin launched a two-run homer off the $130m (£102m) signing in the second inning, sending the ball 375 feet over the left-field wall.
‘Special’ day for teenage talent
The teenager doubled his tally just two innings later against Seth Martinez.
This second strike was even more impressive, travelling 440 feet to cap a four-RBI performance.
It marked a dramatic turnaround for the 6ft 4in infielder, who had been searching for his first hit of the spring prior to the game.
“Got some good swings off, so kind of smoked them,” Griffin told reporters.
“I stepped in the box and I was ready to compete. I wasn’t worrying about who was on the mound. I was just worrying about what his stuff was and how I could have the best approach.”
Path to the majors
The hype surrounding Griffin mirrors the excitement generated by team-mate Paul Skenes two years ago.
While the reigning National League Cy Young winner waited until May for his big league debut, the shortstop could arrive sooner given the uncertainty on the left side of Pittsburgh’s infield.
Jared Triolo and Nick Gonzales are competing for spots, but neither possesses the offensive ceiling offered by the organisation’s top talent.
“We have to keep in mind that he’s 19,” said Pirates manager Don Kelly.
“It’s about continuing to push him, allowing him to be himself and playing free.”
Suarez not surprised
Suarez, who was an All-Star with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024, admitted he expected quality from the youngster despite the age gap.
The left-hander surrendered two runs and three hits during his 1⅔ innings of work.
“When you’re the top prospect in the game, people expect that from you,” Suarez said.
“He did that today, and I wasn’t surprised.”
Pirates pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski added: “He’s definitely going to hit. There’s not a whole lot of swings you see like that, especially from a teenager.”