June 12, 2019
Photo credit: Joshua Tjiong/MiLB.com
Outfielder Griffin Conine has been swinging a hot bat for the Lansing Lugnuts since joining the club last month.
Conine, who is currently slashing .438/.481/1.000 after 48 at-bats is also supporting an impressive 1.481 OPS in the Midwest League.
His great numbers at the plate comes from his 21 hits that has included: five doubles, two triples, and six home runs in just 12 games with the Lugnuts’.
Conine credits the work that he put in during extended spring training as a major contributor to his hot start.
“I worked on a lot of important things in extended,” explained Conine. “I’ve matured in terms of hitting approach. I understand that you’re not going to hit a home run every at-bat. Sometimes you just have to hit what you get. If they’re throwing you pitches on the outer-third, you just have to hit them, and that’s what I’ve been trying to do.”
And making the most of his at-bats has been something Conine has done well during the early stages of his 2019 season.
Another area that Conine is excelling at is his play in the field. In fact, the prospect hasn’t committed an error yet, while adding two outfield assists, and a double play in his 84 innings of work in right field.
And as expected, Conine takes pride in his defense, “I take pride in my defense,” stated Conine. “I feel it’s important to be good in the field, and not just a hitter first guy. I take a lot of pride in making good throws, and throwing guys out. That’s one of my favorite things to do.”
But, no matter the outcome, Conine can always count on the advice of his Dad. As the son of former major leaguer Jeff Conine, Griffin knows he can always turn to his Dad for encouragement and advice.
“My Dad was a huge influence on my baseball career,” said Conine. “Obviously, he got me into the game at a young age. He’s always there if I want to talk about the mental side of the game or whatever. It’s definitely nice having him in my corner.”
Be sure to follow Griffin Conine’s progress this season, and for years to come.