The Pirates aren’t making the postseason this year, and that’s a tough pill for any team fighting for a winning record. But if you want a reason to get hyped for what’s coming, you *have* to look at Jared Jones. He just flirted with a perfect game *again* on Tuesday against the Cardinals, a wild habit for him since his return from major elbow surgery. It’s getting the whole league to sit up and take notice.
September’s Shutdown Machine
Forget good numbers; Jones’ September marks are absolutely off the charts. In his four starts this month, he’s been an unhittable force. We’re talking 25.0 innings with an insane 1.08 ERA and a ridiculous 0.64 WHIP. He’s fanned 35 batters, walking only four. That’s dominance. He’s allowed a run in only one September start and notched at least eight strikeouts every single time out. His 0.78 FIP actually screams he’s been slightly *unlucky*. What does that tell you? This isn’t a fluke; this is elite pitching.
The Comeback No One Saw Coming
It’s even wilder when you remember his journey. Jones missed all of 2025 after a brutal internal brace procedure on his elbow. That’s career-threatening surgery. He had rust when he came back, totally normal. But the way he’s steadily improved? That’s the real story. Through 20 starts since his return, he’s got a 5-6 record, 97.2 innings, a 3.87 ERA, and a 3.29 FIP, with 118 strikeouts. Remember that 5.76 ERA over his first six starts? Ancient history. Since July, he’s given up more than three runs only *one single time* in 14 starts. That’s a full-blown resurgence, pure proof that hard work pays off.
A Glimpse into 2027
So, while the Pirates finish their push for a winning season, Jones is giving fans a massive preview of 2027. With Braxton Ashcraft’s breakthrough year and Bubba Chandler showing serious progress, Jones’ re-emergence means their rotation behind Paul Skenes could be absolutely filthy next season. We’re talking serious arms coming together. If Jones carries this electric, September fire into next year, the league better brace itself. It’s going to be a wild ride.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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