How fast can Konnor Griffin throw? Exploring LSU commit's pitching speed
Konnor Griffin is the No. 1 rated high school baseball player in the United States and is a projected top 10 pick in the 2024 MLB draft. Griffin has the frame of an MLB slugger, the speed of a prospect who could steal 30 bases at the big leagues and the discipline to possibly see him surpass even the loftiest expectations.
According to MLB.com, Konnor Griffin's throw can clock in at 96 mph. He said he learned much of his pitching from Jay Powell and steadily improved his speed during his time at Jackson Prep.
Is Konnor Griffin a two-way prospect?
Yes, Konnor Griffin is a true two-way prospect with the potential to go early in the draft as either a batter or pitcher. Griffin, who throws hard and bats even harder, is currently viewed as the 2024 MLB draft's second-best two-way player behind Florida's Jac Caglianone.
Furthermore, Griffin models his game after 2023 National League MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., the first player in league history to hit at least 40 home runs and steal 70 bases in a season. That might be an indicator of what Griffin wants to do when he makes the jump to the pros.
Will Konnor Griffin choose the MLB or college in 2025?
It's unclear whether Griffin will play collegiate baseball or skip the process entirely to try out his skill set in the MLB. Griffin has a pro-ready frame, and his upside is seemingly unlimited among prospects his age.
However, in an interview with MLB Network, Griffin spoke of his desire to play for the LSU Tigers:
"LSU is a special place. Jay Johnson is a great coach. He's a winner. It would be super cool to play in Baton Rouge for LSU, and I have two great opportunities ahead of me," he said.
Griffin then sent a message to Tigers fans:
"It’d be cool to go play in Baton Rouge. The fans are unreal. I know they would like me to make an appearance in Baton Rouge. We’ll see what happens. Two great opportunities, but I’m going to be ready for either of those," he added.
Konnor Griffin remains one of this year's draft's biggest prospects, and his decision will undoubtedly be closely monitored ahead of the big day. Early high school draft prospects are known to slide down the board once it's obvious they'll be exploring the collegiate route rather than immediately jumping to the MLB.