Pirates Have MLB’s New No. 1 Prospect After Midseason Update

The arrow keeps pointing upward for a promising Pittsburgh Pirates prospect.

MLB.com gave the Pirates a new top prospect when unveiling a midseason update this week. Konnor Griffin leapfrogged Bubba Chandler for the system’s top spot, but he’s not just the team’s new No. 1.

The update initially placed Griffin at No. 2 overall behind Roman Anthony, who graduated from prospect consideration after Wednesday night’s game. As a result, Griffin is MLB’s new No. 1 prospect.

It’s a massive climb for Griffin, who began the year as MLB’s No. 43 prospect. Last year’s No. 9 pick has exceeded even the loftiest expectations by batting .324/.400/.511 with 12 home runs and 42 stolen bases this season.

The Pirates quickly promoted Griffin to High-A Greensboro in early June. MLB.com scout Jonathan Mayo told Sports Net Pittsburgh that the 19-year-old “is way ahead of where anyone thought.” He predicted that Griffin will finish the 2025 season in Double-A and position himself for a big-league call-up as soon as next season.

MLB.com’s Jim Callis noted that Griffin is the first player to ever garner the No. 1 prospect spot during his first professional season. He’s also the second-youngest player to top the list after making the biggest midseason jump to No. 1.

The Pirates would love if Griffin follows in the footsteps of other rapid risers. Alex Bregman leaped from 22nd to first during the 2016 season, and Mike Trout went from 50th in the 2010 preseason rankings to No. 1 the following preseason.

Griffin’s ascension is no knock on Chandler, who’s now MLB.com’s No. 5 prospect and second pitcher behind Cincinnati Reds newcomer Chase Burns. Hunter Barco (No. 72) also represents Pittsburgh in the top 100, and 18-year-old slugger Edward Florentino soared up to sixth in the team rankings.

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