Overview
- GM Ben Cherington, speaking Tuesday at PNC Park, said there is a "level of hope" for a Griffin extension and stressed the team has nothing to announce yet.
- ESPN's Buster Olney reported the sides were working on a nine-year, $140 million contract, though the Pirates have not confirmed any terms.
- Griffin debuted with an RBI double and, after a brief slump, went 2-for-4 with two RBIs in Tuesday's 7-1 win over the Padres.
- With Jared Triolo out for weeks because of a right patellar tendon injury, Griffin will handle shortstop and Nick Gonzales and Nick Yorke will see more time at third base.
- Recent long-term deals for young infielders, including Seattle's Colt Emerson and Milwaukee's Cooper Pratt, frame the market as Pittsburgh considers locking in a cornerstone.