USA names Mets rookie Nolan McLean as WBC championship starter

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The United States will face Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic championship game on Tuesday night. Team USA has officially named New York Mets rookie ace Nolan McLean as its starting pitcher for the title matchup. Despite his rookie status, the 23-year-old has quickly gained the team's trust and will try to help deliver the Americans their first WBC championship since 2017.

Why it matters

The World Baseball Classic is one of the premier international baseball tournaments, and the championship game represents a chance for the United States to reclaim the title after falling short in 2021. Mets rookie Nolan McLean's selection as the starting pitcher underscores the team's confidence in his abilities and the rising talent of young American pitchers.

The details

McLean has already made one start in the tournament, earning a win while not allowing an earned run over four innings. In his early major league career with the Mets in 2025, he posted a 5-1 record with a 2.06 ERA in eight starts. Prior to his call-up, McLean impressed in the minors with an 8-5 record and 2.45 ERA across 18 starts, racking up 127 strikeouts.

• The World Baseball Classic championship game will be played on Tuesday night.
• McLean made one previous start in the tournament, earning a win.

What’s next

The World Baseball Classic championship game between Team USA and Venezuela will be played on Tuesday night, with Nolan McLean taking the mound for the Americans.