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Konnor Griffin Crushes Third Spring Homer as Cora Lauds Pirates’ 19-Year-Old Star

A new Grapefruit League blast and an on-the-record endorsement from Boston’s manager sharpen focus on the top prospect’s rapid rise.

Mar 1, 2026; Jupiter, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin (75) rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Griffin hit his third Grapefruit League home run on Sunday against the Cardinals, a 408-foot shot reported by MLB Pipeline.
  • He previously logged a two-homer game versus the Red Sox, including a 374-foot drive off Ranger Suárez and a 440-foot blast off Seth Martinez.
  • Red Sox manager Alex Cora praised Griffin, saying “He’s only 19, give it a shot,” and highlighted his hustle on a routine grounder as “the mark of a pro.”
  • The 6-foot-3 shortstop, selected ninth in the 2024 MLB Draft, is 19 years old and has been labeled baseball’s No. 1 prospect entering 2026.
  • All three of Griffin’s spring hits have been home runs, and his performances are fueling discussion about whether he should open the season in the majors.