PIRATES

While Konnor Griffin mentioned he expected to take part in some light throwing tomorrow, Todd Tomczyk said Griffin began throwing plyos on Sunday and will meet with team physicians in the coming days before being potentially cleared for a throwing program. 

"He's been cleared to hit from day one," Tomczyk said, while also specifying that Griffin is dealing with a low-grade forearm muscle strain. "All in all, we're very encouraged about the progress and how Konnor is coming along." 

Tomczyk said it's important to point out that, according to all of the clinical exams with subsequent imaging that the team physicians and second-opinion physicians did, the ligament is stable and there are no concerns at this time that any type of surgical procedure is required. 

Griffin met with Dr. Keith Meister during the team's trip to Houston last week and Griffin said he suggested additional rest rather than trying to return following the 10-day window in which he's on the injured list. 

"He suggested not throwing for two weeks, so we've kind of taken that since the last time I threw," said Griffin, who admitted he felt tightness and soreness around his elbow area before letting the team know about the injury late last month. "Just trying to take a little break and really make sure I don't hurt myself worse and just take our time with it. It's still middle of the season, so we've got some time to rehab and get back and be ready to roll toward the last half."

Griffin said this isn't an injury he's ever dealt with before. He pitched in high school and never had a problem, and mentioned that he felt great during his first full professional season in 2025. 

"I don't really know what caused it," Griffin said. "But just trying to adapt and heal it up and get back rolling. I just try to stay locked into the games and not let myself get too far away from the game. It's something (where) I could be back here in the next few weeks, and I don't want to be too far away from the game. I want to make sure I'm focused and trying to keep my head in the best space I can."

Griffin joined the Pirates during their recent road trip and even took part in infield drills without throwing. He said he currently feels good and has felt good doing everything except throwing. That's why he served as the team's designated hitter in the first two games that followed his initial diagnosis. 

"I haven't thrown in close to two weeks, so it's been good to just rest it," Griffin said. 

A clear, definitive timeline for Griffin's return should be available in the coming days after those conversations with team physicians, Tomczyk said.