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Garner Today
By the People, for the People
Mets' Nolan McLean Poised for Breakout WBC Performance
The 24-year-old right-hander could play a key role for Team USA despite his relative inexperience.
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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New York Mets pitcher Nolan McLean, a 24-year-old right-hander, is set to take on a significant role for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Despite having made just eight career major league starts, McLean has impressed with his dominant stuff and could even get the ball in the WBC championship game.
Why it matters
McLean's potential breakout performance in the WBC could be a major boost for Team USA's championship aspirations. As a relatively untested player, his success or failure could have a big impact on the team's overall performance and chances of winning the tournament.
The details
McLean was originally drafted by the Mets as a two-way player out of Oklahoma State in 2023, but his pitching quickly surpassed his hitting ability. After dominating in the minors, he made his MLB debut for the Mets in August 2025 and became one of the team's most reliable starters down the stretch. McLean features a 95 mph fastball, a power sinker, a sweeper, and a curveball, giving him a deep and effective pitch mix for a 24-year-old.
- McLean will start Team USA's fourth pool-play game against Italy on Tuesday, March 12, 2026.
- He could potentially get the ball in the WBC championship game, if Team USA manager Mark DeRosa lines him up to pitch after using ace Paul Skenes in the semifinal round.
The players
Nolan McLean
A 24-year-old right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets who is set to play a significant role for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic despite having just eight career major league starts.
Mark DeRosa
The manager of Team USA's World Baseball Classic squad.
Paul Skenes
The ace pitcher for Team USA who DeRosa has lined up to start in the semifinal round of the WBC.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
McLean's potential breakout performance in the WBC could be a major boost for Team USA, as the relatively untested 24-year-old right-hander has impressed with his dominant stuff and could even get the ball in the championship game.
