Pirates Sign First-Round Draft Pick Konnor Griffin

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates have officially signed 2024 first-round draft pick Konnor Griffin ahead of Thursday’s deadline. 

Griffin was selected ninth overall by the Pirates out of Jackson Prep Florence, Miss. The 18-year-old was committed to play collegiately at LSU but opted to start his professional career, as expected.

The slot value for the ninth pick was $6.22 million. Griffin received an overslot deal with a $6,532,025 agreement, a source confirmed to Pittsburgh Baseball Now. 

“We are really excited to introduce Konnor Griffin and announce the signing of Konnor as our first round pick from 2024,” said general manager Ben Cherington at a press conference at PNC Park. “During the time between the draft and today, as we had a chance to talk to Konnor and his family through the process, the word partnership was used a lot in those conversations, and I think that’s the word that I’d like to start with today.

“Really is the beginning of what we believe to be a terrific partnership, one that will benefit the Pirates and also benefit Konnor. We’re excited and honored to jump into that with you, Konnor, and be part of that partnership with you and be part of the journey and there will be a lot of exciting days ahead.”

Scouts have raved about Griffin’s upside and see five-tool potential in him. He possesses elite speed and an excellent arm and has the ability to play two demanding positions in shortstop and center field.

To go along with his speed, Griffin has some of the best power of any prep player in this year’s draft and could become a 30-30 player down the road. The only question regarding Griffin is his hit tool with mixed reviews on his pure hitting ability. 

“I feel like I worked my tail off to get to this position, and I know there’s a lot more work to be done,” said Griffin. “I can’t wait to start this process. I know it’s going to be a tough process, there’s going to be adversity. But, I’m ready to face that. I’m ready to take the challenges and get started. So, thank you to everyone from the Pirates for believing in me. Super excited to be here.”

Griffin hit .559 with 13 doubles, four triples, nine home runs, 39 RBIs and an eye-opening 85 steals during his senior season. He was named the National Gatorade Player of the Year as well as the MaxPreps Player of the Year.

Baseball American ranks Griffin as the Pirates’ second-best prospect behind Bubba Chandler. On the top 100 list, Griffin is ranked No. 82.

The potential with Griffin is high and after putting pen to paper, the talented youngster is ready to embark on his professional career at Pirate City in Bradenton, Fla.