CARY, NC – Baseball is a game of failure – with as many ups as there are in the game, there are just as many downs. Konnor Griffin is a ball player who has experienced plenty of high moments in his young baseball career, but is learning to believe in his game when the going gets tough as he fights for an invitation to the 2022 16U/17U National Team Development Program (NTDP).
His mindset to accomplish this feat is simple.
“Playing hard every game,” said Griffin who returns to 2022 16U National Team Championships with Knights Knation. “Giving it all I’ve got and hopefully the success comes. Sometimes this game can be hard and come with a lot of failure. I know I’ve got to stick to my plan and give it my all.”
At the 2021 14U National Team Championships North Carolina, Griffin was a walking highlight-reel. Slashing .455/.533/.545 with five runs batted in for Knights Knation, he put the complex on notice by stealing home and helping the team narrowly defeat Richmond Braves Platinum 9-8.
Word of Griffin’s play traveled around to the USA Baseball Task Force as they sought the best individuals to invite to the 2021 15U National Team trials.
There was no better feeling than receiving the invitation for an opportunity to prove himself and hone his craft among the finest at his age.
“It was awesome. Getting recognized as one of the top players in the country is always an honor. I went to the trials and had a really great time. I came out of the trials a better baseball player by competing against all my teammates every single day.”
Griffin’s experience at trials allowed him to build up confidence and show he belongs among the best. As a member of the Stars at trials, Griffin displayed his game-changing ability by going 2-for-3 with two doubles and swiping three bags in five games played. He also dealt 2.2 innings and struck out four to not allow a run to score. The dynamic play earned him a spot as one of 20 athletes on the 2021 15U National Team.
The moment hearing his name called was a moment unlike any the Mississippi native has ever experienced.
“It’s one of the best moments I’ve had in my life with baseball. I’ve been working for it for so long. To represent not only my country but being the only guy from Mississippi to make the 15U National Team was an honor.”
Griffin is not complacent with the lone national team selection at 15U and is hoping to don the red, white, and blue once more. While a potential invitation to the 2022 16U/17U NTDP is the first step, he has an even bigger goal in mind.
“One of my biggest goals coming up is making the 18U National Team. I just recently re-classified to 2024, so I’ll be a 17-year-old trying to make the 18U National Team. That will be a big challenge for me, but I’m going to work hard and try my best.”
While making the 2022 18U National Team is going to be a hard mountain to climb, Griffin is certainly up for the task.
