Konnor Griffin’s Playoff Push Powers Altoona in Search of Eastern League Glory
Pittsburgh Pirates prospect Konnor Griffin is gearing up to lead the Double-A Altoona Curve into the postseason, as they aim to capture the Eastern League title. The ninth overall pick in the 2024 First-Year Player Draft, Griffin has been a standout player, showcasing his skills just when his team needs him most.
A Stellar Regular Season Finish
The Altoona Curve are set for a best-of-three playoff series against the Erie Seawolves, the Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. The matchup is particularly intriguing as both teams have demonstrated strong performances throughout the season. Erie concluded the first half with an impressive 45-24 record, while Altoona matched that intensity with a 39-33 record in the second half, setting the stage for a compelling playoff showdown.
The playoff series kicks off at Peoples Natural Gas Park on September 16, before shifting to UPMC Park in Erie for the following games, if necessary. It’s a crucial moment for Griffin and his teammates, as they seek to secure their first Eastern League title since 2017.
Griffin’s Impressive Stats and Impact
Since joining Altoona on August 18, Griffin has made his mark, slashing an impressive .337/.418/.542 with an OPS of .960 over 21 games. In that span, he has recorded 28 hits in 83 at-bats, including two doubles, five home runs, and 22 RBIs, alongside seven walks and six stolen bases.
His performance peaked dramatically when he hit two home runs in a single game, driving in a career-high seven RBIs in a dominant 14-3 victory over the Harrisburg Senators on August 29. He followed that up with another solo shot in an 8-0 victory on August 31. On September 6, Griffin added to his tally with a fourth home run against the Richmond Flying Squirrels in a tightly contested 7-6 extra-innings loss. His most recent home run came on September 10 against Erie, contributing to an 11-2 rout.
Primarily playing shortstop, Griffin has started 18 games in that position, while also seeing action in center field and as a designated hitter. His versatility adds significant depth to the Curve’s lineup as they head into playoff action.
Supporting Cast and Future Prospects
Griffin is not alone in his pursuit of a championship. Altoona boasts a roster filled with top-tier talent, including second baseman Termarr Johnson (ranked sixth overall), outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez (15th overall), and catcher Omar Alfonzo (19th overall). Right-handed pitcher Wilber Dotel, ranked 28th, rounds out a promising group of prospects looking to make their mark.
As Griffin leads the charge, the hope is that the Altoona Curve can reclaim the Eastern League title and etch their names in the history books once more. The stakes are high, but with Griffin’s performance and the collective talent on the team, the dream of championship glory remains within reach.
