FORT MYERS, Fla. — Konnor Griffin, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ premier prospect and MLB’s consensus No. 1 overall talent, delivered a standout performance with two massive home runs during the team’s 16-7 Grapefruit League victory over the Boston Red Sox.
Griffin’s Impressive Home Runs
The 19-year-old shortstop launched his first homer, a 375-foot two-run shot over the left-field wall, off Ranger Suarez in the second inning. Suarez, who recently joined Boston on a five-year, $130 million contract following strong seasons with Philadelphia, struggled early.
Griffin struck again in the fourth inning, crushing a two-strike pitch from Seth Martinez 440 feet for another home run. “Got some good swings off, so kind of smoked them,” Griffin said afterward.
Manager and Teammates React
Standing 6-foot-4, Griffin rocketed through Pittsburgh’s minor league system last season. He entered the game hitless in spring training but finished with four RBIs, showcasing his raw potential.
Pirates manager Don Kelly emphasized patience: “We have to keep in mind that he’s 19. It’s about continuing to push him, allowing him to be himself and playing free.”
Griffin called facing established major leaguers — including 2024 All-Star Suarez and veteran Martinez with over 100 appearances in five seasons — “special.” He stayed focused: “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.”
Suarez Acknowledges Talent
Suarez, who yielded two runs on three hits and two strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings, praised the young star through an interpreter: “When you’re the top prospect in the game, people expect that from you. He did that today, and I wasn’t surprised.”
Pirates’ Infield Outlook
Griffin mirrors the grounded approach of Paul Skenes, the reigning National League Cy Young winner who transitioned quickly from minors to majors two years ago. Pittsburgh’s left-side infield remains uncertain, with Jared Triolo and Nick Gonzales competing, but neither matches Griffin’s offensive upside.
Teammate Carmen Mlodzinski raved: “He’s definitely going to hit. There’s not a whole lot of swings you see like that, especially from a teenager. The best way to say it is his swing stays in the zone forever.”
