Injury Disrupts Rotation Plans
Right-handed starter Jared Jones is dealing with right elbow discomfort that will sideline him for the remainder of spring training. Jones experienced the issue after his most recent bullpen appearance and will miss his final scheduled start before the season begins. As a rookie, he posted a 6-8 record with a 4.14 ERA and notched 132 strikeouts over 121 2/3 innings. His expected role as the Pirates’ third starter behind Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller now hangs in the balance, as his availability for Opening Day remains doubtful.
Challenges for the Starting Rotation
With Opening Day a week away and Jones ruled out for his upcoming start, the Pirates are pressed to identify a viable option to fill the gap in the rotation. Uncertainty surrounds his recovery, as the team awaits further evaluations and considers the implications for the season ahead. The situation underscores the need for depth in the pitching staff, with the rotation already accustomed to handling spot starts due to injury or fatigue.
Emerging Talent Offers a Glimmer of Hope
One promising candidate is Thomas Harrington, a top prospect who has captured attention during spring training. Drafted in the first round out of Campbell University, Harrington has firmly established himself as a quality arm in the organization. Recently, he delivered an impressive performance in a spring game, accumulating 3 2/3 innings while allowing just one hit and one run. His command, pitch mix, and ability to induce swing-and-miss outcomes with his changeup highlight his potential to step into a starting role, despite concerns about using his rookie eligibility early in the season.
Another candidate making a strong case is a first-round pick whose work in relief has prompted the organization to increase his pitch load. This pitcher has demonstrated the ability to command a four-seam fastball reaching up to 96 MPH along with a mix that includes a slider, cutter, and sweeper. Notably, his metrics indicate that he presents a challenge for batters, with data placing his barrel percentage among the highest in the league. His recent start, which yielded three strikeouts over three innings, suggests that he could be groomed for more significant opportunities if Jones remains sidelined.
Looking Ahead to the Season
The unexpected injury to Jared Jones forces a reassessment of the Pirates’ rotation just as the season looms. While the immediate focus shifts to finding a credible replacement for the upcoming Opening Day series, the situation also emphasizes the importance of the organization’s depth in pitching. With promising prospects ready to step in, the Pirates are navigating these challenges with the understanding that adjustments in the rotation are an inherent part of the game. As evaluations continue, the team will closely monitor developments to ensure they are prepared for the demands of the season ahead.
