Mets GM Speaks Out After Big Roster Decision on Tuesday

Since being promoted to Syracuse on August 11, he has thrown 11 2/3 scoreless innings, fanning 17 batters while allowing just three walks. MiLB.com also notes that at the Double-A level alone, he went 8–4 with a 1.72 ERA and 138 strikeouts in 89 innings, showcasing his dominance well before his rapid climb to Syracuse.

The timing of Tong’s arrival is no coincidence. The Mets are currently navigating a demanding run of 16 games in 16 days, a stretch that requires pitching depth and durability. Tong is slated to make his first major league start Friday night against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field, joining fellow rookie Nolan McLean as part of a youthful infusion into the Mets’ pitching staff.

David Stearns Addresses Jonah Tong Call-Up

Mets general manager David Stearns addressed this big decision when speaking with reporters (via SNY).

“He’s pushed us on this because of his performance,” Stearns said. “We think he’s ready for this. We also acknowledged that this has gone faster than any of us would have anticipated at the start of this year.”

He added, “As you roll into the last month of the season, you want to have the best roster you possibly can. And we think Jonah has the chance to be among that. He’s earned the opportunity. And so we’re gonna give him the start and look forward to seeing how it goes.”

What makes Tong such a formidable presence on the mound is his rare combination of stuff and delivery. His mid-to-upper 90s fastball plays even harder thanks to a deceptive, over-the-top arm slot that creates unusual rise and late life. Scouts also praise his 12–6 curveball, which drops sharply out of the zone, and a sweeping changeup that has produced whiff rates near 50 percent.

What Scouts Are Saying About Jonah Tong's MLB Future

Some evaluators also note a cutter-like slider that gives him a true four-pitch mix. Together, his repertoire evokes comparisons to former Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum, not only for the strikeout totals but also for the unique mechanics and athleticism that make hitters consistently uncomfortable.

Beyond raw numbers, Tong’s underlying metrics point to sustainability. He holds opponents to a paltry .148 batting average, leads all full-season pitchers in strikeout rate (40.5%), and boasts one of the lowest FIPs in the minors at 1.66 (MLB.com). He has also excelled at limiting damage, surrendering only 0.2 home runs per nine innings, a critical skill as he transitions to facing big-league hitters.

For the Mets, Tong represents both immediate help and long-term promise. President of Baseball Operations David Stearns has suggested that Tong could be used in the rotation or bullpen depending on team needs, but his performance will determine his role down the stretch. Ranked as the No. 4 prospect in the Mets’ system and No. 44 overall in baseball (MLB Pipeline), Tong now has the chance to validate the hype on the biggest stage.

On Friday, all eyes in Queens will be on Jonah Tong, the strikeout artist whose ascent from minor league dominance to major league debut has been nothing short of remarkable.