3 Pirates prospects who have impressed in spring training so far

Spring training is in full swing now, and the Pittsburgh Pirates are off to a good start, posting a 5-2-1 record in their first eight games. Adding to the excitement, many of their top prospects are in camp and getting playing time. Not only have some performed well thus far into spring training, but they have also flashed the potential that makes them some of the highest-ranking prospects in the Pirates system. These three, in particular, have shown some of the most potential.

3 Pirates prospects who've flashed significant potential at spring training

Konnor Griffin

The Pirates sent a spring training invite to their best position player prospect this year, Konnor Griffin. The Bucs just drafted Griffin in 2024, taking him ninth overall. He ended up inking a signing bonus worth just over $6.5 million, which was slightly over slot. However, even given that hefty expenditure, the Pirates may have gotten a steal.

Griffin was considered by many as the highest-ceiling prospect in the draft. One look at his scouting report, and you'll see why. Griffin is a potential 30/30 threat and projects as a Gold Glove defender at the two most premium non-catcher positions at shortstop and center field. He also has a powerful arm, as he was also a pitcher in high school, hitting the mid/upper-90s on the mound. His hit tool is the only part of his game that doesn’t project as plus or better.

Impressively, Griffin began camp going 2-for-5 in a limited sample against big-league talent. His first hit was a single on Feb. 23 against the Minnesota Twins that came off the bat with an exit velocity of nearly 100 MPH (99.7 MPH); however, it was only a ground ball. Griffin also showed off his wheels, going first to third on another hit that inning by Abrahan Gutierrez.

Griffin then hit a home run on March 1 against the Baltimore Orioles. All of his innings in the field so far have been in center field, but the Pirates drafted him as a shortstop.

It will be very exciting to see what Griffin can do in 2025. He turns 19 in late April, so it’s possible he will get an extended look at Bradenton this upcoming season. The infielder/outfielder could very easily rise to the top of prospect lists if he can flash just a fraction of his potential during 2025.