Pittsburgh Pirates manager Don Kelly removed starting pitcher Jared Jones from Wednesday night's game against the Atlanta Braves after six perfect innings, a decision made to protect the player's arm despite the potential for a historic no-hitter. Jones had not allowed a single baserunner through six innings, striking out eight of the 18 batters he faced.
The decision came after Jones threw 77 pitches. Kelly stated that the primary concern was the long-term health of Jones, who recently underwent internal brace elbow surgery. "Wanting guys to stay healthy is the number one thing with these guys because we need Jared for the rest of the season throwing the ball like that," Kelly explained. "Trying to push him right now when he’s only had five ups – there’s just no way."
Jones, who seemed to playfully attempt to sneak past Kelly after exiting the game, acknowledged he understood the manager's decision. "The pitch count aspect does suck, but I completely understand," Jones said. The team had initially planned for him to pitch five innings, but extended his outing due to his efficiency.
The perfect game bid ended in the eighth inning when Braves batter Joey Bart hit a two-run home run off pitcher Dennis Santana. Atlanta added a third run in the ninth inning to secure a 3-0 victory.