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Konnor Griffin's first batting practice with Pirates was as impressive as fans hoped
This kid is built like a big leaguer.
Pittsburgh Pirates prospect Konnor Griffin got his first taste of the major leagues last week, and it's safe to say he looked the part.
Just two days after signing for an above-slot $6.5 million bonus, the No. 9 overall pick of the 2024 MLB Draft fielded ground balls and took batting practice with the Pirates before Friday night’s game at PNC Park.
Griffin sprayed line drives to all fields during batting practice, including one ball that went off the center field wall. He also looked right at home fielding grounders alongside some of his future Pirates teammates.
At just 18 years old, Griffin is at least four years younger than anyone on the Pirates roster. But the 6-foot-4, 215-pound, right-handed hitter didn't look even remotely out of place taking batting practice with the big leaguers. Griffin was the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year, a USA Baseball star, and an LSU commit before the Pirates signed him to the over-slot deal; no stage was going to be too big for him.
Dreams to reality 💛 pic.twitter.com/5pFERu8ZDI
— Young Bucs (@YoungBucsPIT) August 2, 2024
Konnor Griffin set to report to Pirate City in Bradenton, Fla., this week to begin his pro career
Griffin had a .559 batting average, with 66 hits in 118 at-bats, along with 39 RBI, 13 doubles, nine home runs and four triples as a senior at Jackson Preparatory School in Jackson, Miss., this year. He struck out just 10 times and logged 47 walks. He also boasted a .932 fielding percentage, turning nine double plays and only committing six errors as a shortstop.
Make yourself at home, KG. pic.twitter.com/YKnEA6kLCD
— Young Bucs (@YoungBucsPIT) August 2, 2024
Griffin, who can also play outfield, led Jackson Prep to a Mississippi state championship just a few months ago and was Perfect Game's No. 1-ranked player in the Class of 2024. According to MLB Pipeline’s draft rankings, he was the top prep prospect available in this year’s draft. The first high school player to come off the board, he has five-tool potential led by his elite speed and strong arm.
Griffin got a taste of the big league lifestyle, but now, the real work begins. Up next, he is set to report to Pirate City in Bradenton, Fla., to embark on his professional baseball career.
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