The Pittsburgh Pirates’ top prospect has the talent to make a serious impact in 2026, potentially shifting the NL Central race and emerging as one of MLB’s biggest breakout stars.
The Pittsburgh Pirates look a lot different entering the 2026 season than they did after the 2025 season came to a close. Last year, they went 71-91 and finished in last place in the National League Central, but a busy offseason could finally put them back in the mix for at least a Wild Card spot.
In addition to the signings of Ryan O'Hearn and Marcell Ozuna and trade for Brandon Lowe, the Pirates have several young stars on their hands, one of whom could be ready for the Major Leagues by Opening Day.Aug 2, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin who was the ninth overall pick in first round of the 2024 First-Year Player Draft in the batting cage before a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images "He's one of these rare talents that you don't want to put a ceiling on," Mayo said. "He's that special." Griffin was the ninth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft by the Pirates. He made his professional debut last season.with 21 home runs, 94 RBI, 65 stolen bases and a .941 OPS, and even advancing as far as Double-A Altoona. He has yet to play a game at Triple-A, so it's always possible he starts the year there before making it to the majors, but it shouldn't be too much longer before he at least gets a taste of the big leagues.quickly, he could change a lot of things around the league, especially in the NL Central. The Pirates are already looking a lot better than they did last year on paper, so adding Griffin to the mix could make them a true contender and give them a chance to at least fight for a Wild Card spot. The Pirates have not been to the postseason since 2015, but the right mix of young stars and veterans could push them to that point, and Griffin could be the final missing piece that puts the Pirates back into contention for the first time in over a decade. Griffin brings power from the right side of the plate and is considered a five-tool player. Pairing him with Paul Skenes, Oneil Cruz, Bubba Chandler and Bryan Reynolds could shake up the NL Central and give the Pirates a chance to walk away with their first division title in 2026.Curt Bishop is a freelance sports writer who graduated from Maryville University of St. Louis with a Bachelor of Arts degree in the field of Communication and currently writes as a contributor for various platforms covering Major League Baseball. Curt’s work includes covering trade and free agency predictions, as well as rumors and news.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Here are Trump’s top promises from his 2026 State of the Union addressTrump looked forward to the remaining three years of his presidency as he attempts to better position Republicans before the midterm elections.
Read more »
2026 Lamborghini Temerario at Lightning Lap 2026Lamborghini Temerario at Lightning Lap 2026
Read more »
2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid: Still the top of the hybrid heap?The small SUV with the efficient powertrain gets a new, more rugged look for 2026, but most of it remains the same.
Read more »
2026 NFL combine: Top draft prospects, workout predictionsWhich NFL draft prospects should have great combine performances? Who could run the fastest 40-yard dashes, and who will climb boards this week?
Read more »
2026 NFL Combine Live: 40 Times, Top Performances and Instant AnalysisFollow along with Sports Illustrated for all the latest from the NFL scouting combine.
Read more »
2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 at Lightning Lap 2026Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 at Lightning Lap 2026
Read more »