MLB Pipeline released their updated Top 10 right-handed pitching prospects heading into the 2026 season on Monday, and unsurprisingly two of the Mets’ young arms made the cut.
Nolan McLean topped the list, and Jonah Tong came in at No. 7.
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Both youngsters are coming off tremendous seasons in which they cruised through the minors and found themselves pitching in big games at the big-league level down the stretch.
McLean enjoyed a bit more success in the majors than Tong, though.
The Oklahoma State product finished 11th in NL Rookie of the Year voting after pitching to a 2.06 ERA and 1.04 WHIP with 57 strikeouts over his first eight career outings.
He’s in line to play a huge role in the Mets’ rotation out of the gate this season.
Tong, on the other hand, was more of a mixed bag.
The 22-year-old showed flashes of the potential that helped him secure Mets Minor League Pitcher of the Year, but ultimately struggled to a 7.71 ERA over his five outings.
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It’ll be interesting to see how things play out for Tong to begin this season.
The righty certainly could use more time in the minors, but whether or not that’ll be with the Mets remains to be seen, as he is said to be “highly coveted” in trade talks this winter.
While they are listening, New York reportedly values Tong highly, so they likely wouldn’t actually move him unless they are receiving a top-tier talent in return.
If he sticks around, he could play a role in the majors at some point this season.
The rest of the Top 10 is as follows:
