Nolan McLean’s recent performance in the World Baseball Classic championship game against Venezuela has underscored his rapid ascent in Major League Baseball. Starting for Team USA, McLean allowed only two runs on four hits over 4 ²/₃ innings while striking out four batters, demonstrating his potential on an international stage.
McLean, who has been pitching full-time for just over a year, has quickly made a name for himself since being drafted by the New York Mets in the third round of the 2023 MLB draft. His fastball, clocked at an impressive 97 to 98 mph during spring training, has become a key component of his pitching arsenal.
In the 2025 season, McLean posted a 2.78 ERA in Triple-A, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level before making his major league debut. In his first stint with the Mets, he achieved a remarkable 2.06 ERA over 48 innings, further solidifying his place in the team’s rotation.
McLean’s curveball has also been a standout feature, breaking a major league-best 26 inches, which has drawn praise from teammates and analysts alike. Jonah Tong, a fellow player, remarked, “He spins it better than anyone I know,” highlighting the effectiveness of McLean’s pitches.
Reflecting on his performance, McLean stated, “If I can have a few more clicks on the heater, it never hurts,” indicating his desire to continue improving his fastball velocity. He expressed confidence in his abilities, saying, “I felt good out there,” after the championship game.
As McLean continues to develop, his trajectory in the MLB will be closely monitored. The combination of his strong performances and rapid rise through the ranks suggests that he could become a significant player for the Mets and potentially for Team USA in future international competitions.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding McLean’s next steps, but his recent success has set high expectations for his future in Major League Baseball.