Konnor Griffin Begins Rehab Assignment, Set to Return to Pirates Soon

Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin has begun his rehab assignment after being out of action for nearly two months due to a left ring finger injury. The injury, which affected his sagittal band, occurred during a game against the Washington Nationals on July 5, forcing him to wear a splint for several weeks.

Griffin made his return to the field on Sunday, playing for the Double-A Altoona Curve, where he completed seven innings and recorded one hit in three at-bats, along with two strikeouts. He has since moved his rehab assignment to Triple-A Indianapolis as of Monday.

The 20-year-old player has faced significant challenges this season, participating in only 59 games due to two separate injuries. In his 247 plate appearances, Griffin has posted a batting line of .276/.332/.404, including a .736 slugging percentage. He had been performing well prior to his injuries, hitting over .300 in a smaller sample size after recovering from a right forearm strain that sidelined him for most of June.

In his first season with the Pirates, Griffin has recorded 10 doubles, two triples, five home runs, and 25 RBIs, while also stealing 20 bases. He was on track to surpass 40 stolen bases had he not suffered injuries. The Pirates secured Griffin's future with a nine-year, $140 million contract extension in April, positioning him as a key player for the franchise.

Griffin is eligible to be activated from the injured list on September 4 and is anticipated to rejoin the team in time for their series against the Los Angeles Angels starting Friday. The Pirates, currently at 67-71, will host the San Francisco Giants for a three-game series beginning Tuesday, as they look to make a late push for the postseason.