Sources: Pirates, Konnor Griffin holding contract negotiations

The Pittsburgh Pirates are deep into negotiations with prime prospect Konnor Griffinsources informed ESPN, with the 2 sides making their respective circumstances over what an acceptable deal can be for the 19-year-old shortstop.

The two sides have been speaking since early in spring coaching, sources informed ESPN, and the Pirates’ proposals are nearer in vary to the eight-year, $111 million deal that Corbin Carroll signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks within the spring of 2023. Griffin’s aspect, nevertheless, has been angling for one thing nearer to Roman Anthony‘s eight-year, $130 million deal that was cast with the Boston Red Sox in August, sources mentioned.

Griffin, who turns 20 later this month, was the No. 9 total choose within the 2024 draft and is ESPN’s No. 1 prospect for 2026. Playing within the minors final yr, the 6-foot-3, 222-pound shortstop batted .333 with a .941 OPS. He had some spectacular moments in spring coaching this yr, clubbing 4 homers in 16 video games, fueling hypothesis that the Pirates may preserve him within the large leagues.

Pittsburgh, nevertheless, sent him to Triple-A Indianapolisthe place he has six hits in his first 13 at-bats.

With star pitcher Paul Skenes heading the rotation, Pittsburgh is perceived to be in a attainable window to win proper now. During the course of the winter, the Pirates added to their offense, buying and selling for Brandon Lowe and signing free brokers Ryan O’Hearn and Marcell Ozuna.

Signing Griffin to a long-term deal would possible be thought to be an indication of excellent religion by the Pirates’ fan base, which has been annoyed by the group’s low payrolls and aggressive struggles over the previous decade.

There is often a rash of younger participant signings round Opening Day. This week, the Seattle Mariners reached an eight-year, $95 million deal with star perspective Colt Emersonwho is anticipated to be promoted to the massive leagues quickly, and the Milwaukee Brewers signed minor league prospect Cooper Pratt to an eight-year, $50.75 million contract.