Pirates Spring Preview: Jones, Contreras to Take Mound vs. Red Sox

Jared Jones’ start got pushed back by a day after the Pittsburgh Pirates were rained out on Friday night. Now, he’ll be on the mound for the Pirates against the Boston Red Sox at LECOM Park at 1:05 ET on Saturday.

Jones has been brilliant this spring. He has yet to be charged with an earned run in 11.2 innings pitched. The 22-year-old has limited his opposition to five hits and has struck out 10 batters. It will be Jones’ final audition before the Pirates break camp for opening day. Jones is in the mix to land an open rotation spot.

Newly-converted reliever Roansy Contreras will also pitch against Boston. The right-hander had a bullpen appearance on Thursday and struck out three batters in a scoreless inning of work. He’s now put together back-to-back scoreless relief appearances.

The Pirates’ starting nine features plenty of players who will be in the opening-day lineup.

Pittsburgh Pirates Lineup

1. Oneil Cruz SS
2. Andrew McCutchen DH
3. Ke’Bryan Hayes 3B
4. Jack Suwinski LF
5. Rowdy Tellez 1B
6. Michael A. Taylor CF
7. Henry Davis C
8. Connor Joe RF
9. Jared Triolo 2B

The Pirates will be up against right-hander Brayan Bello. Bello has made four starts this spring and 0-1 with a 4.85 ERA. The 24-year-old has struck out 11 and walked five in 13 innings pitched.

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