Mets’ Jonah Tong promotion leads to Craig Kimbrel being DFA’d

With the New York Mets in second-to-last place in the NL East and 12.5 games behind the first-placed Atlanta Braves, the club is switching things up with the roster before Friday’s contest against the Miami Marlins. Top pitching prospect Jonah Tong is being called up, while longtime veteran Craig Kimbrel is being sent down.

Reports indicate that Tong, who is the Mets’ No. 2 overall prospect, is being promoted to the majors. The franchise also announced that Kimbrel is being designated for assignment to create room on the roster for Tong.

“We have made the following roster moves,” said the Mets. “RHP Jonah Tong has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse. RHP Craig Kimbrel has been designated for assignment.”

This will be Tong’s second stint with the Mets, as the franchise called him up during the 2025 campaign. The 22-year-old right-hander started five games last season for the Mets, recording a 7.71 ERA and 1.768 WHIP with 22 strikeouts through 18.2 innings pitched.

With both Clay Holmes (60-day IL) and Kodai Senga (15-day IL) both spending time on the injury list, Jonah Tong could have some opportunities to start for the Mets. However, there is a chance Tong joins the club’s bullpen instead. Tobias Myers is expected to get the start for Friday’s matchup vs. the Marlins.

Meanwhile, Craig Kimbrel, who is 37 years old, is experiencing a down season so far in 2026. The 17-year veteran owns a 6.00 ERA and 1.467 WHIP through 15.0 innings pitched so far this year, which is well below his 2.65 ERA career average. Maybe some time away from the Mets will give him a reset before he potentially returns later in the season.

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