Pirates fans need to stop pretending Konnor Griffin was robbed of Rookie of the Year recognition

Writing for Rum Bunter, Emma Lingan argues that Pittsburgh Pirates supporters should stop claiming shortstop Konnor Griffin was snubbed as a 2026 National League Rookie of the Year finalist. Lingan contends that while Griffin showed tremendous promise and posted 2.1 bWAR, his limited 80-game campaign due to injuries did not warrant a finalist spot over full-season performers like Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart.

Lingan notes that Stewart played all 162 games, hitting 32 home runs with 112 RBI to secure 20 first-place votes. While praising Griffin's high ceiling and strong defense, Lingan emphasizes that the award reflects single-season achievements rather than long-term potential, urging fans to appreciate Griffin's encouraging rookie year without manufacturing controversy.