Pittsburgh Review

Jimmy Zurn, a high school coach, shared his anticipation as he awaited news about his former player Jared Jones. On March 24, Jones was vying for a spot on the Pittsburgh Pirates' Opening Day roster after an impressive Spring Training performance. Zurn was eager to hear if Jones had made the team.

Jones, ranked as the Pirates' No. 3 prospect, delivered outstanding results during Spring Training by pitching 16 1/3 innings without allowing an earned run. His father, Keith Jones, kept in touch with Zurn throughout the process. Eventually, Jared called Zurn to confirm that he had secured a place on the team.

Zurn and Jones have maintained a close relationship since Jones was in eighth grade. "We have a pretty close relationship," said Jones. The two communicate regularly, often through text messages. As Jones progressed from being a second-round Draft pick in 2020 to becoming a Major League player, he continued to value his roots and connection with Zurn.

Zurn recalled recognizing Jones's potential early on when he saw him pitch as an eighth grader at La Mirada High School in California. He remarked on Jones's natural athleticism and competitive spirit. "You were born for this, dude," Zurn told him.

Jones's talent was evident even then; he once pitched a perfect game using only fastballs until the final slider pitch. During his senior year of high school, he protested when Zurn removed him from a no-hitter due to pitch count restrictions. "My responsibility is to that thing hanging off the right side of your body," explained Zurn.

Now with the Pirates, both Jones and the team appreciate Zurn's careful management of his arm during those formative years. Describing Jones's approach on the mound, Zurn said: "When he has a ball in his hand, a totally different beast comes out."

Jones himself acknowledged his competitive nature: "I’m [a] fiery little guy."

As news spread of Jones making it to the Majors alongside fellow La Mirada alumnus Daniel Ponce De Leon of the Cardinals, there was much excitement back home. Many planned watch parties for the upcoming Pirates game while Zurn traveled to Miami to witness it firsthand.

Despite all this attention surrounding him ahead of Saturday’s game at loanDepot park—where family members including parents and uncle would be present—Zurn sent one last supportive message earlier this week: “Just go do you; you’ll be just fine.”