Pirates Mailbag: Konnor Griffin made the most of his first big league camp
Over the last few weeks, Pirates fans have gotten to see Konnor Griffin in action for the first time since he was drafted last year. While it is only his first spring training, Griffin has dazzled with his skillset and has been the buzz of camp. He has the tools to be a star and has not disappointed.
So far this spring, Griffin has appeared in six games and posted a .250 batting average. He also flexed his power on Saturday with his first professional home run. Although he has had a lot to take in since arriving in Bradenton, he has focused on learning as much as possible.
“Being around the big league team, I’m just trying to learn as much as I can,” Griffin said earlier this Spring Training.“It’s a great opportunity to grow my game and see how things are run at the big league level.”
While his stint in big league camp ended on Sunday, Griffin made a lasting impression. He is currently ranked as the second-best prospect in the organization, behind only Bubba Chandler. After being one of the top high school bats in his class, the talented 18-year-old was busy perfecting his game over the winter, and the hard work is already paying off.
The Mississippi native has been quicker to the plate, and his swing is more compact. He doesn't need to reinvent his approach, but he has focused on limiting the space in his swing. His desire to perfect his game is one reason the Pirates made him the ninth overall pick in last year's draft.
Although Griffin is still years away from his MLB debut, it's hard not to be excited about what he did in big league camp. He has the potential to be a 30-30 player, which the Pirates need. They have excelled at developing pitchers the last few years but have not had the same luck with position players. Griffin has the potential to be the exception and a dangerous bat in the middle of the lineup for years to come.
After what he did over the last few weeks, Griffin will be one of the most watched prospects in the minor this season as he inches closer to calling PNC Park his home.