There’s a real chance Konnor Griffin could make his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates next month.

The Pirates have left the door open for Griffin to make the Opening Day roster, inviting MLB.com’s top-ranked prospect to spring training. While bringing the 19-year-old to Pittsburgh may seem aggressive, a reporter feels Griffin has a legitimate shot to begin his career on March 26.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Noah Hiles said Friday on a 93.7 The Fan radio appearance that he considers it “more likely than not” that Griffin is on the Pirates’ Opening Day roster.

“I think he has to play himself out of it at this point,” Hiles said. “If he is their best shortstop, he’s making the team.”

Hiles doesn’t believe the Pirates are merely giving Griffin a chance to force their hand by undeniably seizing the job in spring training. Instead, the former No. 9 pick can earn his spot by holding his own.

“If he hits .275 in spring, I think he’s fine,” Hiles predicted. “I don’t think this is a guy who needs to lead the team in home runs or batting average. I think if he strikes out in 50 percent of his at-bats, that’s gonna be what keeps him from making the major leagues.”

Furthermore, Hiles doesn’t anticipate service time affecting Pittsburgh’s decision. The organization could gain extra team control by delaying his call-up, especially with the added risk of a 2027 MLB lockdown or Griffin earning a year of service time by finishing first or second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting.

“They could lose a lot by bringing him up,” Hiles noted. “But that kind of justifies the point that they would not have said these things if it wasn’t — they’re trying to win.”

More MLB: Konnor Griffin Discusses ‘Pretty Special’ Chance Of Being Pirates’ Opening Day Shortstop

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