Reports: Pirates activate rookie SS Konnor Griffin

Field Level Media|published: Fri 4th September, 16:03 2026

Jul 4, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin (6) fields a ground ball against the Washington Nationals during the fifth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Pirates reinstated rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin from the 60-day injured list Friday, while veteran catcher Christian Bethancourt was designated for assignment, multiple outlets reported.

The Pirates also reportedly recalled right-hander Isaac Mattson, while left-hander Brandon Eisert was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis in advance of the opener of a three-game home series against the Los Angeles Angels.

Griffin, 20, has not played since July 5 because of a torn tendon in the ring finger of his left hand. He made his major league debut to much fanfare on April 3 and batted .276 with five home runs, 25 RBIs and 20 stolen bases in 59 games.

A former No. 9 overall draft pick in 2024, Griffin was MLB Pipeline's top overall prospect when he was called up just after the start of the season

Mattson, 31, had a 4.91 ERA in 37 relief appearances with Pittsburgh earlier this season. Eisert, 28, is a combined 2-2 with a 6.00 ERA in 34 appearances (four starts) with the Chicago White Sox and Pirates this season.

Bethancourt, 35, did not play for the Pirates this season after he was promoted to the major league roster Sept. 1. In eight major league seasons with six different clubs, he is a career .229 hitter with 35 home runs and 135 RBIs in 427 games.

--Field Level Media

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