Bobby Jones

Who is Bobby Jones?

Robert Joseph Jones is a former right-handed starting pitcher in Major League Baseball. His career spanned from 1993 through 2002. He pitched for two teams, the New York Mets, and the San Diego Padres. He attended the same high school as another notable Mets pitcher, Tom Seaver.

Jones was selected by the Mets with the 36th pick in the 1st round of the 1991 amateur draft. He was a compensatory pick the Mets received when Darryl Strawberry left the team as a free agent. He made his major league debut on August 14, 1993 against the Philadelphia Phillies, where he picked up a win, allowing one run over six innings.

By 1994, Jones had emerged as a mainstay in the Mets starting rotation. His 12 wins and 3.15 earned run average placed him among the league leaders. In 1995, he led the team in wins and strikeouts.

1997 was a breakout year for Jones. He raced out to an early 10-2 record by June, and appeared in his first and only All-Star Game. He pitched the 8th inning for the National League, and highlighted his effort with strikeouts of Ken Griffey, Jr and Mark McGwire. Although Jones fizzled out in the second half of the season, his 15 wins stood as his career best.