Konnor Griffin is catching some serious attention, and not just from fans. The Pittsburgh Pirates prospect has a major supporter in Bryce Harper, a two-time MVP who knows a thing or two about making waves in the big leagues.
During a spring training matchup between the Pirates and the Phillies, Harper took a moment to share his thoughts on Griffin. As he watched the young talent rip a hard lineout in the sixth inning, Harper didn't hold back his admiration. "He’s going to be a stud, man," Harper predicted, a sentiment echoed on social media by MLB.
Griffin is on a mission to join the majors at 19, a rare achievement that Harper himself accomplished. Harper is rooting for Griffin to make the Pirates' Opening Day roster, recognizing the challenges of playing at such a high level at a young age.
"Obviously it’s tough when you’re that age trying to play at a high level, but he’s done it his whole life," Harper noted. "He wouldn’t be in the position that he is if he wasn’t who he is, so I hope they let him in."
Harper, the 2012 Rookie of the Year and an eight-time All-Star, offered some sage advice to the 6-foot-4, 222-pound phenom as he vies for a spot in the big leagues. "I would just tell him to be himself," Harper advised.
"That’s it. Do what got you here, and don’t change for nobody.
Just be yourself and have fun. Enjoy the game.
I mean, like I said, he’s here for a reason. He looks like a grown man.
He’s a big boy, so I really hope he has a great career."
With endorsements like this, Griffin's journey to the majors is one to watch closely. He's got the skills, the size, and now, the backing of one of the game's greats. The stage is set for Griffin to make his mark.