Konnor Griffin Is the World's Most Precocious 20
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin, 20, is notable for his exceptional athleticism, including being the fastest big man in MLB and having the fastest bat speed among shortstops, while also demonstrating a mature, old-soul mindset uncommon for his age.
- Griffin's disciplined lifestyle includes regular church attendance, nightly calls to his parents, and working with a mental skills coach since age 19, reflecting his focus on both physical and mental aspects of the game.
- After a slow start to the 2024 season, Griffin has demonstrated significant improvement, contributing to the Pirates' early success as a playoff contender following years of losing records.
- The Pirates made a bold move drafting Griffin ninth overall in 2024, signing him as a shortstop despite some scouts projecting him as an outfielder, showing their confidence in his potential as a franchise player.
- Griffin aims for a Hall of Fame career, emphasizing leadership, teamwork, and overcoming failure, while also expressing a desire to make a lasting impact on the city of Pittsburgh beyond baseball.