Pirates Make Konnor Griffin Decision Before Blue Jays Game
The Pittsburgh Pirates made a notable lineup decision before Sunday's Game 3 matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays, leaving rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin out of the starting lineup.
MLB analyst Colin Beazley reacted to the update on social media, noting several lineup adjustments for the series finale in Toronto.
"No Konnor Griffin for the Pirates today," Beazley wrote.
Beazley also added that manager Don Kelly wants to remain cautious with outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia as he continues recovering from a back injury.
No Konnor Griffin for the Pirates today. Spencer Horwitz leads off, while Esmerlyn Valdez gets a 3rd consecutive start in RF. DH Day for Oneil Cruz, so Jake Mangum's in center.
— Colin Beazley (@colin_beazley) May 24, 2026
Don Kelly has said the Pirates want to be careful with Jhostynxon Garcia coming off the back injury. https://t.co/KOefAqRmxP
Griffin entered the weekend carrying an eight-game hitting streak, but the young star struggled through the first two games against Toronto. He went 0-for-7 with one walk and three strikeouts, leading the Pirates to give him a rest day in the finale.
Veteran infielder Jared Triolo replaced Griffin at shortstop and batted ninth.
Pittsburgh Pirates' starting lineup
Pittsburgh's lineup for Game 3 against the Blue Jays on Sunday:
- Spencer Horwitz - First Base (1B)
- Brandon Lowe - Second Base (2B)
- Bryan Reynolds - Left Field (LF)
- Nick Gonzales - Third Base (3B)
- Oneil Cruz - Designated Hitter (DH)
- Endy Rodríguez - Catcher (C)
- Esmerlyn Valdez - Right Field (RF)
- Jake Mangum - Center Field (CF)
- Jared Triolo - Shortstop (SS)
- Mitch Keller - Starting Pitcher (SP)
The Pirates are entering Sunday looking to bounce back after a 5-2 loss on Saturday. Toronto extended its winning streak to four games behind a strong outing from Patrick Corbin and an early leadoff homer from George Springer.
Sunday's finale features a pitching matchup between Toronto right-hander Dylan Cease and Pirates starter Mitch Keller.
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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 9:36 AM.