The Pittsburgh Pirates have unveiled their Opening Day roster, which includes the highly anticipated addition of top pitching prospect Jared Jones. The 22-year-old right-hander beat out the competition to secure a spot on the team's rotation, following an impressive showing during spring training.

Selected in the second round of the 2020 draft, Jones has consistently ranked among the top 100 prospects in the game by multiple outlets. With a strong 2023 season split between Double-A Altoona and Triple-A Indianapolis, posting a combined 3.85 ERA and impressive strikeout and walk rates, Jones solidified his status as a promising young pitcher.

During the Grapefruit League play, Jones showcased his talent, pitching 16 1/3 innings without an earned run, only allowing nine hits and accumulating 15 strikeouts. His dominant performance undoubtedly played a crucial role in the Pirates' decision to add him to the Opening Day roster.

Scouting reports have praised Jones for his improved fastball and slider, making him a potential mid-rotation starter. With further enhancements in his command, curveball, and changeup, his upside could soar even higher. Expectations are high for Jones, as a strong rookie season could potentially earn the Pirates an extra pick in the 2025 draft under the newly implemented prospect promotion incentives.

In addition to Jones, infielder Jared Triolo is set to make his mark on the Pirates' roster as the starting second baseman. The 26-year-old made his major league debut in 2023, primarily playing at third base. However, Triolo's versatility and defensive prowess led the team to shift him to second base for the upcoming season.

Triolo demonstrated his offensive potential last year, batting .298/.388/.398 in 209 plate appearances. Although his strikeout rate was concerning at 30.1%, his ability to draw walks helped maintain a decent level of production. In this year's limited spring playing time, Triolo has shown improvement, hitting .325/.400/.525 with a pair of home runs. While strikeouts remain an area to address, his strong defensive skills and plate discipline provide a solid foundation for his success.

Joining Jones and Triolo on the Pirates' Opening Day roster are right-handers Hunter Stratton and Ryder Ryan. Stratton made his MLB debut in 2023 and earned a second opportunity after an impressive spring performance, including seven shutout innings. Ryan, with minimal major league experience, has excelled in Triple-A in recent seasons and will finally have the chance to prove his worth at the big league level.

The Pirates have made their final roster decisions for the beginning of the 2024 season, placing catcher Yasmani Grandal and infielder/outfielder Ji Hwan Bae on the 10-day injured list. Relievers Colin Holderman and Carmen Mlodzinski will start the season on the 15-day injured list. Out-of-options pitchers Bailey Falter, Josh Fleming, and Roansy Contreras, as well as outfielder Edward Olivares and righty Luis Ortiz, have also secured spots on the roster.

With a mix of top prospects, emerging talents, and experienced players, the Pirates are eager to set sail on their 2024 campaign. The performance of Jared Jones and Jared Triolo, in particular, will be closely watched as they contribute to the team's success on the field.