Mets Demote Player for Jonah Tong's Start Against Marlins

The New York Mets made a roster move Monday to clear room for top pitching prospect Jonah Tong ahead of his start against the Miami Marlins. The Mets recalled Tong from Triple-A Syracuse and optioned right-hander Justin Hagenman to the minors.

Tong gets the ball at LoanDepot Park as New York continues evaluating its young pitching options down the stretch. The 23-year-old right-hander has also been lined up to remain in the major league rotation for the rest of the season.

Tong earned another opportunity after finishing his latest stretch with Syracuse on a strong note. He posted a 0.84 ERA across his final four Triple-A starts, including a role in a combined no-hitter on July 30.

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Overall, Tong went 5-6 with a 4.54 ERA and 126 strikeouts in 23 starts for Syracuse. His return gives the Mets another chance to evaluate one of their most important young arms at the major league level.

Hagenman, meanwhile, heads back to Triple-A after a brief stint with New York. The 29-year-old spent much of the season on the injured list while recovering from a fractured rib and appeared in only two games for the Mets.

Hagenman recorded a 4.50 ERA across four innings during those appearances. His demotion creates the roster space needed for Tong while allowing the Mets to continue managing their pitching depth.

Tong’s start also comes as New York looks toward the future rather than the postseason. The Mets have several young arms competing for rotation opportunities, including Christian Scott, Nolan McLean and Zac Thornton.

The organization will get another extended look at Tong against Miami, with his performance potentially influencing his role heading into 2027. His continued presence in the rotation could also put him in position for a start against the New York Yankees during the upcoming Subway Series.

For now, the priority is giving Tong regular major league innings. The Mets clearly want to see what their young right-hander can do with a consistent opportunity.

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