The best rotation the Pittsburgh Pirates can have in the second half of the season

What would be the best combination of starting pitchers the Pittsburgh Pirates could have in the second half of this season?
Jul 5, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes (30) delivers a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 5, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes (30) delivers a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports | Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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Jared Jones

There’s a reason why fans are saying the Pirates are now a pitching factory. Not only do they have a ton of top prospects performing well in the minor leagues, but they also have two young flamethrowers performing well in the bigs. Of course, one is Paul Skenes, but the other is Jared Jones. Jones entered the year as one of the Bucs’ best prospects and has lived up to his potential thus far.

Jones has tossed 91 innings, working to a 3.56 ERA, 3.74 FIP, and 1.11 WHIP. The right-hander has improved his control season after season, but has taken a huge leap forward this year. He has just a 7.3% walk rate, which makes his already above-average 26.4% K% look even better. Unfortunately, Jones has been home run prone, allowing 1.19 HR/9.

Jones has gotten hit hard at times. He has an 89.4 MPH exit velocity and a 9.9% barrel rate. His barrel rate is tied for the worst among rookie pitchers with at least 60 frames this season, alongside San Francisco Giants lefty Kyle Harrison and Arizona Diamondbacks youngster Slade Cecconi.

Jared Jones and Paul Skenes have been a dynamic duo at the top of the Pirates’ rotation. It’s been fun to watch both of them blow hitters away with powerful stuff. Once they get Jones back from injury, this rotation will look even better than it has already. 

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