JaredJones is now throwing bullpens twice a week and is working toward continuing to increase his velocity as he recovers from an internal brace procedure he underwent in May.
The hard-throwing Jones, who was averaging 97 mph with his fastball back in 2024, has been working with pitching coach VicBlack, strength coach NickPrestley and personal trainer SethSteinhauer in Bradenton, Fla. this offseason in an effort to get back to full health and return to form.
"Throw harder, increasing velo, mix in some offspeed pitches every two to three weeks," Jones said. "Just try and get back to my old self again."
Considering the competitor that he is, Jones admits he found it difficult to rein things in once his rehab got going. He had to start slow and ramp things up at a careful pace in order to avoid any type of setback. Still, his competitiveness hasn't faded.
"Right now, I'm competing against throwing fastballs in the zone, so every time I don't do that I have some choice words for myself," Jones said. "Haven't lost that edge yet."
Jones could be looking at an early-season return after missing out on the entire 2025 season. If he does return to the rotation once fully healthy, Jones could add to an already young and talented starting rotation led by PaulSkenes and veteran MitchKeller.
Back in 2024, Jones impressed as a rookie, compiling a 6-8 record with a 4.14 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP in 22 starts. He struck out 132 batters, walked 39 and limited hitters to a .232 average over 121 2/3 innings.
Jones has learned one thing in particular during a long stretch of time in which he's been forced to watch Pirates games rather than be around the team and spend time on a major-league mound. It's something that seemingly drives him to return a better pitcher than he was before.
"I miss baseball," Jones said. "Sitting on my couch and watching games is not fun compared to being in the dugout or being the one playing it."
THE ASYLUM
Jones trying to find his 'old self' during rehab
Jared Jones is now throwing bullpens twice a week and is working toward continuing to increase his velocity as he recovers from an internal brace procedure he underwent in May.
The hard-throwing Jones, who was averaging 97 mph with his fastball back in 2024, has been working with pitching coach Vic Black, strength coach Nick Prestley and personal trainer Seth Steinhauer in Bradenton, Fla. this offseason in an effort to get back to full health and return to form.
"Throw harder, increasing velo, mix in some offspeed pitches every two to three weeks," Jones said. "Just try and get back to my old self again."
Considering the competitor that he is, Jones admits he found it difficult to rein things in once his rehab got going. He had to start slow and ramp things up at a careful pace in order to avoid any type of setback. Still, his competitiveness hasn't faded.
"Right now, I'm competing against throwing fastballs in the zone, so every time I don't do that I have some choice words for myself," Jones said. "Haven't lost that edge yet."
Jones could be looking at an early-season return after missing out on the entire 2025 season. If he does return to the rotation once fully healthy, Jones could add to an already young and talented starting rotation led by Paul Skenes and veteran Mitch Keller.
Back in 2024, Jones impressed as a rookie, compiling a 6-8 record with a 4.14 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP in 22 starts. He struck out 132 batters, walked 39 and limited hitters to a .232 average over 121 2/3 innings.
Jones has learned one thing in particular during a long stretch of time in which he's been forced to watch Pirates games rather than be around the team and spend time on a major-league mound. It's something that seemingly drives him to return a better pitcher than he was before.
"I miss baseball," Jones said. "Sitting on my couch and watching games is not fun compared to being in the dugout or being the one playing it."
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