Team USA Shuffles Pitching Rotation for Potential Championship Game

Joe Ryan and Nolan McLean are the top options to start if the U.S. reaches the final

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:28am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With several key pitchers departing the Team USA roster, the squad has had to make adjustments to its pitching rotation. If the Americans advance to the championship game, they are considering starting either Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins or Nolan McLean of the New York Mets.

Why it matters

Team USA has faced challenges in pool play and will need to rely on its remaining pitching depth to make a run at the championship. The decisions on the starting rotation could have a major impact on their chances of winning the title.

The details

Logan Webb will get the start for Team USA in their quarterfinal matchup against Canada on Friday night. If they advance, the team is considering starting either Joe Ryan or Nolan McLean in the championship game on March 17. Ryan had a strong 2025 season with the Twins, making the All-Star team, while McLean impressed in his MLB debut with the Mets late last year.

  • Team USA will face Canada in the quarterfinals on Friday, March 14, 2026.
  • The championship game, if Team USA advances, is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

The players

Joe Ryan

A pitcher for the Minnesota Twins who was an All-Star in 2025 after going 13-10 with a 3.42 ERA in 30 starts and one relief appearance.

Nolan McLean

A pitcher for the New York Mets who made his MLB debut late in the 2025 season, going 5-1 with a 2.06 ERA in eight starts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Joe Ryan & Nolan McLean are Team USA's starting pitching options for March 17, if the U.S. advances to the Championship Game.”

— Jon Morosi, MLB Network Reporter

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

Team USA has had to make significant changes to its pitching rotation due to roster departures, but they are confident in their remaining options of Joe Ryan and Nolan McLean if they can advance to the championship game. The decisions on the starting pitcher could be crucial in determining whether the Americans can capture the title.