#1
#1 out of 1
sports5h ago
Nolan McLean's rise from Mets prospect to Team USA WBC starter
- McLean sat 97-98 mph in his first spring bullpen, a clear uptick from last year and a signal he is ready for a bigger role.
- Team USA views him as a key rotation piece, potentially starting in the knockout rounds of the WBC.
- McLean's athletic path shifted from quarterback to pitcher, a move that unlocked his MLB potential.
- His pitching toolkit includes multiple fastballs, a sharp curve, and a high-spin profile.
- Mets teammates and coaches note his bulldog mentality and work ethic as distinguishing traits.
- McLean's minor-league success includes a strong 2025 run, finishing with a 2.06 ERA over 48 innings in the majors that year.
- He views starting pitching as a focus, likening the preparation to a football game and prioritizing recovery.
- His fatherly support and a dedicated training barn helped accelerate his development.
- ESPN positions McLean among the era's top young pitchers, alongside Skubal and Skenes, as the Mets weigh his ceiling.
- The World Baseball Classic setup could elevate McLean's profile as a budding MLB ace.
Vote 0