The New York Mets are set to bring up another promising pitching prospect during a crucial part of the season. Jonah Tong, hailing from Markham, Ontario, will be called up to start against the Miami Marlins on Friday night after impressing in just two appearances at Triple-A Syracuse. The 22-year-old right-hander has been dominant in the minor leagues, amassing an impressive 377 strikeouts with a 2.54 ERA over 247 2/3 innings.
Tong leads all minor league pitchers in strikeouts this season, showcasing his prowess on the mound. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his confidence in Tong, citing his exceptional performance in the minors as the reason for his promotion. With the Mets facing a stretch of 16 games without a break, they aim to incorporate a sixth starter into the rotation to provide rest for the regular pitchers.
Frankie Montas, who struggled this season before moving to the bullpen due to an elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery, created an opening for Tong’s opportunity. Depending on Tong’s performance, he may secure a spot on the major league roster for the remainder of the season. The decision to call up Tong follows the recent promotion of pitcher Nolan McLean, who has excelled in his first two starts with the Mets.
Mendoza emphasized the importance of allowing Tong to showcase his skills without added pressure, highlighting the rapid rise of both Tong and McLean through the minor league system. Tong’s journey from the Georgia Premier Academy to the MLB Draft League culminated in his selection by the Mets in the 2022 draft. His success in the minors, particularly this season, has earned him a shot at the major league level.
With a playing style reminiscent of former MLB star Tim Lincecum, Tong’s deceptive delivery and impressive pitching arsenal have garnered attention. Rated as the Mets’ No. 4 prospect and rapidly climbing the ranks, Tong’s promotion signifies the organization’s confidence in his abilities. As the Mets continue their pursuit of a playoff spot, the addition of Tong and McLean injects excitement into the team’s pitching rotation.