Overview

• Tong allowed six runs and recorded two outs against the Rangers at Citi Field in an 8-3 defeat.
• His ERA climbed to 8.49 after four hits and three walks in a 40-pitch first inning.
• Mendoza and veterans offered reassurance, telling him to keep his head up and not let one game define him.
• Tong said the outing "hurts" and acknowledged it put more stress on a taxed bullpen.
• The club kept rotation plans open, with Mendoza indicating the Mets could get creative about his next assignment.