The Pirates' handling of Konnor Griffin's extension has sparked debate, with many questioning their strategy. With one of the best young players in baseball, the Pirates have a unique opportunity to secure his services for the long term. But the question remains: should they follow the same path as with Paul Skenes, or take a different approach with Griffin?
The Pirates have a history of handing out extensions, notably to Mitch Keller, Bryan Reynolds, and Ke'Bryan Hayes. However, the landscape of MLB contracts has shifted, making long-term deals less common. The Pirates could buck this trend by offering Griffin a substantial extension, but it's a risky move.
The Red Sox provide an interesting case study. They've built a strong core of young players on long-term deals, with Cedanne Rafaela signing an eight-year, $50 million contract early in his career. While Griffin is considered more complete, the Pirates must consider the risks involved in signing him.
The Pirates could have negotiated Griffin's extension alongside Kyle Schwarber's representation, as they are with the same agency. A deal could have significantly increased the Pirates' payroll, but it would also have come with risks. The Pirates must decide if the potential rewards outweigh the risks, and if they're willing to take a chance on one of the best young players in baseball.
