A Southern California native, Jesse Chavez was originally a member of the Texas Rangers organization. Traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates for Kip Wells, Jesse quickly rose through the Pirates' minor league system.

Following a September promotion to Pittsburgh, Chavez made his Major League debut on August 27, 2008, pitching a scoreless inning in relief. After contributing to the Braves' bullpen this year, Jesse was dealt at the trade deadline to the Kansas City Royals.