Overview
- The Pirates announced Thursday that the 19-year-old shortstop will start the home opener against the Orioles at PNC Park.
- ESPN and the AP report active negotiations on a long-term deal, with figures discussed around eight years in the $111–$130 million range and no agreement yet.
- Because he is up this early, Griffin is set to earn a full year of service time, which also makes Pittsburgh eligible for a bonus draft pick if he later wins major awards.
- The 2024 No. 9 pick was the 2025 Minor League Player of the Year after hitting .333 with 21 home runs and 65 stolen bases, then opened Triple-A this week at .438.
- Pittsburgh turned to him after a light start at shortstop from Jared Triolo, and his arrival boosts a lineup seeking more offense to back a young rotation led by Paul Skenes.