Pirates' Konnor Griffin Optimistic About Return in Coming Weeks After Forearm Strain

Pittsburgh Pirates rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin remains out indefinitely with a right forearm strain as of June 9, 2026, though the 20-year-old is optimistic about resuming activity soon. Griffin first reported discomfort after a May 27 loss to the Chicago Cubs. He played the next two games as designated hitter before the Pirates placed him on the 10-day injured list on May 31.

The club initially expected a short absence, but the injury proved more severe than anticipated. Griffin is eligible to come off the injured list on June 10. ESPN reported that imaging showed his ulnar collateral ligament remained stable.

He was examined by multiple physicians. Pirates director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk stated that any throwing activity will not begin until Griffin meets with the medical team in the coming days. Griffin said he hopes to start a throwing program as early as Wednesday.

He added that he had never experienced issues with his throwing arm before and chose to report the discomfort promptly. "Just trying to take a little break and really make sure I don't hurt myself worse and just take our time with it," Griffin said in the Pittsburgh clubhouse before Tuesday's game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. " Griffin turned 20 on April 24, 2026.

He made his major league debut in early April as a teenager and signed a nine-year contract with the Pirates shortly afterward. 270 with four home runs, 22 RBI and 14 stolen bases. Griffin pitched in high school before the Pirates selected him in the first round of the 2024 draft.

He said the timing of the injury allows him to miss only a couple of weeks rather than the remainder of the season.