Jared Jones Praises Paul Skenes’ Leadership
However, their camaraderie and friendly rivalry go beyond baseball, as their partners—Riley and Olivia Dunne—have also developed a close friendship.
This week, Jared Jones had nothing but high praise for Paul Skenes, acknowledging his leadership within the clubhouse. This comes after Skenes’ incredible NL Rookie of the Year season, where he posted:
🔥 11-3 record
🔥 1.96 ERA
🔥 First overall pick in 2023 MLB Draft
Jones emphasized how much Skenes has meant to the Pirates’ pitching staff, calling him a role model and a leader in their young rotation.
Paul Skenes’ Hilarious Reaction to Jones’ Compliment
When Sportsnet Pittsburgh’s Hannah Mears relayed Jones’ words to Skenes, he initially responded with humor:
🗣️ “Uh, yeah, coming from Jared, I need you to send me the transcript of that, and I’ll print it out and put it in his locker,” Skenes joked.
However, he later got serious and acknowledged how much the praise meant to him.
Skenes and Jones are not only teammates but close friends, and their bond is evident. They push each other to be better, knowing that their performances will be critical to the Pirates’ success in 2025.
Skenes & Jones: The Future of the Pirates’ Rotation
The Pirates have a promising young pitching core, and Skenes and Jones are expected to lead the way.
Pirates’ 2025 Projected Rotation:
1️⃣ Paul Skenes (Rookie of the Year, dominant stuff)
2️⃣ Jared Jones (High-velocity right-hander)
3️⃣ Mitch Keller (Veteran leader)
4️⃣ Quinn Priester (Developing young talent)
5️⃣ Luis Ortiz (Big potential)
If Skenes and Jones continue to develop their friendship and chemistry, it could translate into dominant performances on the field.
What’s Next for the Pirates?
The Pirates are looking to take the next step in 2025, and their young pitching staff will be a big reason why.
🎯 Can Skenes and Jones help lead Pittsburgh back to the playoffs?
🎯 Will Skenes build on his Rookie of the Year campaign?
🎯 How will their friendship translate to on-field success?
With two rising stars leading the way, Pirates fans have plenty to be excited about this season!
What do you think—will Skenes and Jones become one of the best pitching duos in baseball? ⚾🔥
