The Pittsburgh Pirates are currently fighting to stay alive in the crowded race for a wild-card spot in the National League.
Pittsburgh is getting ready for a huge series with the Los Angeles Angels, giving them a chance to stack some wins. But ahead of the matchup with Los Angeles, the Pirates may be getting a major boost to their roster.
Rookie sensation Konnor Griffin is expected to be activated from the 60-day injured list before the series. Griffin has been out since July 5, when he suffered a torn sagittal band in his left finger.
Friday is his first game of eligibility, and Griffin seems healthy enough to return. The star commented on how he feels, giving more insight into the recovery process.
"I feel good," Griffin said . "I think all the rehab stuff went well. So if they're ready to activate me, I'll be ready to go."
Griffin has attacked his rehab strongly, with the hopes of getting back on the field before the season is over. He understands where the Pirates are as a team, and getting him back into the lineup would be huge for this club.
For the year, Griffin has hit .276 with five home runs, 25 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases, while posting an OPS of .736. Griffin has provided the Pirates with some hope for the future, but the team is solely focused on ending this year on a high note.
Pittsburgh hasn't made the playoffs in 10 years, which is the longest streak in the NL. However, without Griffin, the Pirates have been able to stay the course , sitting 5.5 games back of the final wild-card spot.
Now healthy, Griffin is ready to provide the Pirates with a potential spark plug, helping them go after a postseason spot.
"It's been driving me nuts just watching games on my phone and stuff," Griffin said. "So it will be fun to finally be back in there competing."
While the chances for the Pirates to get into the playoffs are slim, they aren't impossible. If Pittsburgh can put together a few solid weeks of play, they could give themselves a decent chance.
After the series with the Angels, the Pirates will be taking on the Chicago White Sox. They then get a tough test in the rival Chicago Cubs, which could really make-or-break the playoff chances.
Either way, having Griffin back is huge for this team, and if he can help them get into the playoffs, they could be a dangerous squad once there.
