What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates' pitcher Jared Jones is currently on a recovery path following an internal brace surgery he underwent on May 21, 2025. The surgery was necessary due to a ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) sprain that Jones suffered after initially feeling pain in his arm during Spring Training. The Pirates placed Jones on the 60-day injured list on February 11, 2026, which coincided with the signing of right-handed pitcher José Urquidy. This move allows Jones to potentially return as early as May 25, 2026, if his recovery progresses as planned. Pirates manager Don Kelly has expressed optimism about Jones' recovery, noting that the pitcher is throwing well and is on track to return by late May or early June. Jones has been making steady progress,
having completed his first bullpen session on January 11, 2026, and continuing to participate in Spring Training activities.
Why It's Important?
Jared Jones' recovery is significant for the Pittsburgh Pirates as they look to strengthen their pitching rotation. Jones, who had a promising rookie season, is a key player for the team, and his return could bolster their performance in the upcoming season. The internal brace surgery, while less invasive than Tommy John surgery, still requires a careful and monitored recovery process. The Pirates' decision to place Jones on the 60-day injured list reflects a strategic move to ensure he has ample time to recover fully without rushing back into play. This approach could prevent further injury and ensure that Jones can contribute effectively upon his return. The team's management and fans are hopeful that Jones' return will coincide with a strong performance, potentially impacting the Pirates' standings in the league.
What's Next?
As Jared Jones continues his recovery, the next steps involve completing a rehab assignment while on the 60-day injured list. This will allow him to gradually build up his pitching strength and readiness for competitive play. If all goes well, Jones is expected to return to the Pirates' active roster by late May 2026. The team will closely monitor his progress to ensure that he is fully prepared to rejoin the rotation. The Pirates' management will likely strategize on how best to integrate Jones back into the team, considering his recovery timeline and the team's needs. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Jones' return impacts the Pirates' performance in the 2026 season.
