Mets' Nolan McLean Eager for WBC Finals Start for Team USA

The Mets' top prospect will take the mound for the U.S. in the World Baseball Classic championship game.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:08pm

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New York Mets pitching prospect Nolan McLean is expected to start for Team USA in the finals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic on Tuesday night. The 24-year-old right-hander recently discussed his mindset heading into the biggest start of his professional career so far, describing it as a "dream come true" to compete on such a big stage.

Why it matters

McLean, the Mets' No. 6 overall prospect, made his MLB debut last year and has quickly emerged as one of the top young arms in baseball. His performance in the WBC finals could help raise his profile even further and provide a glimpse of the Mets' bright future on the mound.

The details

In his first WBC appearance against Italy, McLean struck out the side in the first inning but then gave up two home runs in the second, leading to a 3-0 deficit for Team USA. However, the young righty said he "felt really good" overall and is eager for the chance to redeem himself in the championship game, which could be a rematch with Italy or a showdown with Venezuela.

  • McLean is expected to take the mound for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic finals on Tuesday, March 10.
  • The 24-year-old made his first WBC appearance on March 10, striking out four batters in three innings but giving up three runs on two home runs.

The players

Nolan McLean

A 24-year-old right-handed pitcher and top prospect in the New York Mets' farm system, who is slated to start for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic finals.

New York Mets

The MLB team that McLean, their No. 6 overall prospect, made his debut for last year, posting a 2.06 ERA with 57 strikeouts in 48 innings over eight starts.

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What they’re saying

“Obviously, I got clipped there a couple times with the homer, but overall, felt really good.”

— Nolan McLean

“I think, as a competitor, ... if you work your whole life at something, you wanna be put in these spots. So it's just kind of a dream come true to be able to get the ball in such a big moment, and it's something I wanna do.”

— Nolan McLean

What’s next

McLean will look to build on his first WBC outing and help lead Team USA to a championship in the finals on Tuesday night.

The takeaway

Nolan McLean's performance in the World Baseball Classic finals could be a major boost for the young Mets pitcher, who is quickly establishing himself as one of the top prospects in baseball. His eagerness to compete on the big stage shows his competitive drive and the Mets' bright future on the mound.