Pirates could get pitcher Jared Jones back sooner than expected

The Pittsburgh Pirates' already formidable rotation could get even stronger by the end of May.

Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that pitcher Jared Jones is doing well in his rehab from surgery on his right throwing elbow. Mackey further reported that the Pirates hope to get Jones back once his time on the 60-day Injured List is over in May.

Jones and Paul Skenes had given the Pirates an impressive pair of rookies in their rotation in 2024. Jones had posted a solid 4.14 ERA and a 1.192 WHiP over his 121.2 innings, striking out 132 batters with 39 walks. 

Jared Jones could make difference in Pittsburgh Pirates rotation

Jones was unable to build off of that performance in 2025. He was diagnosed with an ulnar collateral ligament sprain in his right elbow and underwent partial Tommy John surgery. As Jones had his UCL repaired instead of replaced, the timeline for his return was 10 to 12 months as opposed to over a year.

The Pirates have a sense of optimism as they head into the 2026 season. A revamped lineup that includes second baseman Brandon Lowe, first baseman Ryan O'Hearn and outfielders Marcell Ozuna, Jake Mangum and Jhostynxon Garcia should make the Pirates more competitive. If nothing else, the Pirates offense should be better than in 2025, when they were last in the majors in runs scored, home runs, slugging and OPS.

However, the Pirates are likely going to go as far as their pitching will take them. If Jones can come back by the end of May, he could be the boost the Pirates need.