Pittsburgh Pirates get massive update on young ace pitcher

The MLB season is in full swing as teams enter the eighth week of regular-season play. Although the season remains young, several teams have already emerged as postseason contenders.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are not only in the playoff hunt, but they also sit within striking distance of the division crown. Now, it appears reinforcements are on the way.

Reports indicate that young ace pitcher Jared Jones could return as early as May 26. He still needs to continue his rehab assignment in Double-A, but his return would provide a massive boost to the Pirates’ rotation.

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Jones suffered an elbow injury just before the start of the 2025 season, dealing a significant blow to Pittsburgh’s pitching staff.

Pirates rotation (almost) at full strength?

Despite posting a 4.14 ERA, Jones showed plenty of promise during his 2024 rookie campaign. He made 22 starts after rapidly climbing through the minor league system.

Many experts viewed Jones’ 2024 promotion as a surprise, projecting him to remain in the minors for at least a few more seasons. However, a dominant 2023 minor league season and an impressive spring in 2024 accelerated his rise to the majors.

Jones quickly established himself as a key piece of the Pirates’ rotation. He consistently lit up the radar gun with fastballs ranging from 96 to 100 mph.

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