The New York Mets are set to promote another highly regarded pitching prospect as they fight for a playoff spot.
Right-hander Jonah Tong will be called up to start Friday night’s game against the Miami Marlins, despite making just two appearances at Triple-A Syracuse. The 22-year-old has been overpowering in the minors, racking up 377 strikeouts across 247 2/3 career innings.
With the team facing a stretch of 16 straight games without a break, the Mets plan to use a six-man rotation to give their regular starters extra rest. Tong’s long-term stay in the majors will hinge on how he performs.
The move follows the recent promotion of 24-year-old Nolan McLean, who debuted Aug. 16 against Seattle. McLean has impressed early, posting a 2-0 record with a 1.46 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 12 1/3 innings across his first two starts.
He’s scheduled to pitch again Wednesday against Philadelphia, which entered Tuesday with a six-game NL East lead over New York.
At that point, the Mets held a 2 1/2-game cushion over Cincinnati for the final National League wild card spot.
Be the first to comment