PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates haven’t been overly active in offseason negotiations so far, but they have moved to retain one familiar arm for 2026.
According to Ari Alexander, right-hander Jarod Bayless has agreed to a minor league contract with the Pirates for next season.
Bayless’ 2025 Season with the Pirates Organization
Bayless initially joined Pittsburgh on a minor league deal signed February 10 and began the season at High-A Greensboro.
After four relief outings, he earned a brief call-up to Triple-A Indianapolis in April before spending the next two months with Double-A Altoona. During his stint there, Bayless went 0–5 across 11 games (eight starts) with a 5.28 ERA, striking out 25 batters while walking seven in 29 innings.
He returned to Greensboro on June 24 and found his rhythm, posting a 3–0 record with a 1.89 ERA over 13 relief appearances. In that stretch, he struck out 25 and walked just two, holding opponents to a .194 average. Bayless also closed out a perfect game for Greensboro, throwing 10 efficient pitches in the ninth inning of a 4–0 win over Bowling Green.
Promoted again to Indianapolis on August 17, Bayless finished the season at Triple-A, logging eight appearances (four starts) with a 3.68 ERA in 22 innings.
Across three levels in 2025, Bayless combined for a 3–6 record with a 3.97 ERA, 77 strikeouts, and 16 walks over 77 innings, holding opposing hitters to a .235 average and a 1.10 WHIP.
Bayless’ Path Ahead
While not currently on the Pirates’ 40-man roster, Bayless could earn consideration for a bullpen role if he impresses during spring training. He’ll compete against a deep pool of right-handed pitchers within the organization.
Though unlikely to start games, a steady showing as a middle reliever could open the door for an MLB call-up in 2026.
Before Joining Pittsburgh
Originally drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 33rd round of the 2019 MLB Draft (996th overall) out of Dallas Baptist University, Bayless spent nearly five seasons in Seattle’s system before being released in August 2024.
Set to turn 29 next year, Bayless enters his sixth professional season still chasing his first major league opportunity.