
The 22-year-old Chinese-Canadian pitcher Jonah Tong of the New York Mets has confirmed he will not represent Team Canada in this year's World Baseball Classic. According to local media, although he wishes to participate, he ultimately decided to prioritize this spring training as it is crucial for earning a place in the team's starting rotation.
Jonah Tong’s father is a Hong Kong-born Canadian, while his mother has German, Irish, and Scottish ancestry; he himself was born and raised in Ontario, Canada.
Canadian reporter Shi Davidi stated today: "Jonah Tong has confirmed he will not play for Team Canada in this Classic. While he is eager to compete, for a young right-hander who only made his MLB debut last summer, this spring training is a vital opportunity, so this decision is understandable."
Ranked 48th on this year’s MLB Top 100 Prospects list and third within the Mets’ farm system, Jonah Tong appeared in five major league games last year, posting a 2-3 record with a 7.71 ERA. This year, he aims to secure a spot on the opening day roster and break into the Mets’ starting rotation through spring training.