Mets Option Top Pitching Prospect to Minors After Rough Spring

Jonah Tong, a 22-year-old right-hander, was sent to Triple-A Syracuse after posting a 10.13 ERA in spring training.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The New York Mets have optioned one of their top pitching prospects, Jonah Tong, to their Triple-A affiliate in Syracuse. Tong, a 22-year-old right-hander, made his MLB debut last season but struggled this spring, posting a 10.13 ERA in one start. The Mets believe sending him to the minors for more seasoning is the best course of action as they finalize their opening day roster.

Why it matters

The Mets have a deep pool of young starting pitching talent, and Tong is considered one of their top prospects. While his spring struggles were concerning, the team still sees a lot of potential in the young hurler and wants to give him more time to develop at the Triple-A level before potentially bringing him back up to the majors.

The details

Tong made his MLB debut for the Mets last season, going 2-3 with a 7.71 ERA in five starts. This spring, he allowed three runs over 2 2/3 innings in his lone Grapefruit League appearance, leading the team to option him to Triple-A Syracuse to start the 2026 campaign.

  • Tong made his MLB debut for the Mets in 2025.
  • Tong posted a 10.13 ERA in spring training 2026.

The players

Jonah Tong

A 22-year-old right-handed pitching prospect in the Mets' organization, considered one of the team's top young arms.

New York Mets

A Major League Baseball team based in New York City that plays in the National League East division.

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What’s next

The Mets will monitor Tong's progress in Triple-A and could call him back up to the majors later in the season if he continues to develop and the big league club has a need for starting pitching.

The takeaway

The Mets' decision to option Tong to the minors shows their commitment to developing their young pitching talent and not rushing them to the majors before they are fully ready. While Tong struggled this spring, the team still believes he has a bright future and wants to give him more time to refine his skills at the Triple-A level.