The Pittsburgh Pirates’ top prospect is now one step closer to the Major Leagues.
The Pirates promoted shortstop/outfielder Konnor Griffin from High-A Greensboro to Double-A Altoona on Sunday. The 19-year-old is ranked as the No. 1 prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline.
Griffin, who was drafted ninth overall last year out of high school, started the season at Class-A Bradenton. He was promoted to Greensboro in early June after 50 games, then spent 51 games in High-A ball before moving up to Double-A.
Griffin dominated at both levels, proving he’s ready for the next step. In 101 games, he batted .332/.414/.524 with 16 homers, 72 RBI, 97 runs and 59 steals in 70 attempts, showing elite five-tool ability as one of the most exciting prospects in baseball.
At 19, Griffin is Pittsburgh’s youngest position player to reach Double-A since Andrew McCutchen in 2006. McCutchen still plays for the Pirates and is one of the best players in franchise history, so that’s a good sign for Griffin’s future.
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Griffin confirmed the promotion on social media, posting a picture of himself batting for Greensboro with the following message:
“Thank you, Greensboro! 💚Grateful for my time with the @GSOHoppers and the amazing fans who supported us every night. Excited for the next chapter with the @AltoonaCurve !”
If Griffin performs well at Double-A, he could move up to Triple-A next year or jump straight to the Major Leagues. Given Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles this season, his MLB debut can’t come soon enough for the rebuilding Pirates.
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Featured image via Charles LeClaire/Imagn Images