Mets promoting another top prospect amid minor league domination

The New York Mets are hoping that lightning can strike twice as they look for answers in the rotation.

Prospect Nolan McLean has impressed in his first two outings for the Mets, allowing just two runs on six hits and four walks over his 12.1 innings, striking out 15 batters. McLean fired seven strong innings in his most recent outing last Friday, giving an overworked Mets bullpen a needed break.

Now it is Jonah Tong's turn. Will Sammon of The Athletic reported that the Mets are set to promote Tong to the majors. ESPN's Jorge Castillo added that Tong will make his debut on Friday as he will start against the Marlins.

Tong has been a dominant force in the minors this season, rocketing up the prospect rankings with each impressive outing. He has posted a 1.43 ERA and a 0.924 WHIP over his 113.2 innings between Double-A and Triple-A, striking out 179 batters with 49 walks.

Meanwhile, the Mets rotation has struggled since the All-Star break. Mets starters have posted a 4.86 ERA entering Tuesday, 22nd in the majors. Subsequently, their starters are not lasting long as their 166.2 innings from the rotation ranks 25th over the same timeframe. That combination has hurt as the Mets have fallen from contending for the NL East to the final wild-card spot.

By having Tong start on Friday, the Mets will be able to get an extra day of rest for the rotation. Should his impressive showing in the minor leagues carry over to his debut, Tong could force the Mets' hand and claim a rotation spot of his own down the stretch. Likewise, a strong showing will help Tong cement his place as a key part of the Mets' future.