Jonah Tong, a 22-year-old right-hander, allowed four runs (one earned) in five innings in his major-league debut while striking out six and issuing no walks. Tong recorded 162 strikeouts in 102 Double-A innings and added 17 in 11 2/3 Triple-A innings. The Mets are using a six-man rotation this week with Tylor Megill nearing a return but possibly better suited for the bullpen if not stretched out. Clay Holmes has shown signs of wearing down in his first full-time starting season, creating opportunities for Tong to receive multiple late-season starts. Nolan McLean is also off to a strong beginning.
When Tong was promoted last week, it wasn't clear if it was for a spot start with a ticket back to Triple-A Syracuse or a chance to stay in the rotation. After collecting his first win against the Miami Marlins in his debut, Tong earned at least one more start, slated for later this week. The 22-year-old right-hander allowed four runs in five frames, but only one was earned. He fanned six without issuing a free pass. Strikeouts were his calling card on the farm, punching out 162 in 102 frames.
The Mets will use a six-man rotation at least for this week and have Tylor Megill close to returning. However, since he won't be fully stretched out, Megill may be better suited to finish the season in the bullpen. Additionally, Clay Holmes may be hitting the wall in his first season as a full-time starter, so there is a pathway for Tong to garner a few starts down the stretch.
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