Jonah Tong's Uniform Number

[Benjamin Grimm]

When the Mets bring up a highly rated prospect, there's always the potential that he'll be the last player to wear whatever uniform number is assigned to him. Given that, the number should be chosen with care.

So what number should Jonah Tong be assigned?

I looked at the current numerical roster at Baseball Reference.

The most suitable numbers that are unclaimed (and unretired) seem to be 21, 40, and 45.

I've seen photos of Tong in a number 38 Mets jersey, but that's currently assigned to Tylor Megill.

Other good numbers are currently assigned to less prominent players who are currently inactive, such as 19 (Jose Siri), 29 (Jared Young), 30 (Hayden Senger), 32 (Max Kranick), 33 (A.J. Minter), 49 (Chris Devenski).

I had suggested 30 for Nolan McLean, because he shares a first name (sort of) with Nolan Ryan. For Tong, based on what's outlined above, I'm thinking he'll be a 40.

[Edgy MD]

Number 44 seems wide open for a dominant pitcher to strip right off of Austin Warren's back and run away with, but he seems too skinny and that's a number for broadbacks.

I'll go with 26.

[Centerfield]

He wore 21 as a Salt Potato.

[Frayed Knot]

When the Mets bring up a highly rated prospect, there's always the potential that he'll be the last player to wear whatever uniform number is assigned to him.

 

Or even if he just sticks with the club for 6 or 7 seasons there's at least a 50/50 shot he'll be the last.

[ashie62]

He can't wear 41 but something in the 40's would be cool

[Benjamin Grimm]

I'll go with 26.

 

McLean is wearing 26.

[Edgy MD]

Somehow I fell asleep on that.

Then I will advocate for 11 — the ultimate slim guy's number.

He could also de-Wheelerize 45.

[MFS62]

Are they allowed to give out 21 after MLB honored Roberto Clemente?

I don't follow uni numbers much so I'm not sure if anyone has been allowed to have his.

Later

[Gwreck]

Yes. Jankowski wore 21 for the Mets earlier this year.

[MFS62]

Thanks,

Later

[Gwreck]

He could also de-Wheelerize 45.

 

Christian Scott might still technically have a claim to that number given his spot on the 40 man roster.

Putting a new star pitching prospect in 48 is an intriguing idea, however.

[metirish]

I had forgotten about Scott , wow

[Benjamin Grimm]

I suspect that 48 is going to be in limbo for a while.

[stevejrogers]

I suspect that 48 is going to be in limbo for a while.

 

Yup. When Senga took to his socials for uniform number suggestions, he told his followers that #48 was not an option for him.

[Gwreck]

It’s 21.

[Centerfield]

It’s 21.

 

Man. I hope this kid is good.

The Mets need a good 21.

(No offense Lucas Duda)

[Benjamin Grimm]

You may have also offended Cleon Jones.

[Frayed Knot]

Not to mention actor Jack Black. Oh wait, Blackjack is 21 ... OK, never mind.

[Edgy MD]

Yeah! Let him be the first 78 in team history!

Or 96!