Griffin's MLB Debut: Pirates Close to $140M Deal

0:00On April 4, Pittsburgh Pirates' shortstop Conner Griffin just made his majorly debut at 19 years old, and he hit the ground running. The top prospect for 2026 win one for three in the Pirates 5-4 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Friday. Right out the gate, he smashed an RBI double on a curveball, driving in the first run and scoring himself later, showing off some serious speed. Here this week, Griffin, the ninth overall pick from the 2024 draft, flashes potential but had a mixed bag after that hot start. He drew a walk, struck out once, and grounded out to the pitcher on a checkswing. Still, that first hit came off the bat at over 105 miles per hour into the gap. Fans are buzzing about this kid, who's already made history as the youngest pirate to get a hit in his debut since Bill Miseroski back in 19. In his post-game chat, Griffin kept it real, saying he just wants to keep winning with the team. Pittsburgh folks see him as the future, bringing that high energy vibe to PNC Park.

1:04Now, where from insiders like Buster only at ESPN is that the Pirates and Griffin are close to locking in a nine-year deal worth 140 million dollars. If it happens, this debut marks the real beginning of Pirates' contention. Griffin's air in Pittsburgh feels electric, and with moves like this extension on the horizon, expect the black and gold to rise up fast. Stay tuned with MLB News Today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with the story.