Konnor Griffin’s promotion to the major leagues is set to come with a massive payday.
The 19-year-old shortstop, who is poised to make his MLB debut during the Pirates’ home opener against the Orioles Friday, is finalizing a nine-year, $140 million deal with Pittsburgh, per ESPN’s Buster Olney, who noted the sides are still at work.
If and when it comes to fruition, it would become the largest guarantee made to a player before their MLB debut.
ESPN reported Wednesday that Griffin and the Pirates began extension talks in spring training, with the teenager’s camp seeking a deal comparable to the $130 million pact Roman Anthony inked with the Red Sox last August.
Griffin could now eclipse Anthony’s deal, and shatter Colt Emerson’s historic $95 million deal signed before his MLB debut – which he signed just this week.
Before this year, Brewers outfielder Jackson Chouriou held the record for the largest guaranteed deal before debuting in the majors, signing an eight-year, $82 million pact during the 2023 Winter Meeting.
Griffin is ranked by MLB Pipeline as the top prospect in baseball entering 2026.
This is a developing story. Please check back for more information.
