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Nolan McLean Makes Team USA Debut With Mixed Three-Inning Start vs. Italy

The 24-year-old Mets right-hander reached this stage after a standout 2025 debut that followed a rapid shift from two-way prospect to full-time pitcher.

Overview

  • McLean struck out the side on 11 pitches in the first inning but allowed two home runs in the second, finishing with three earned runs over three innings.
  • He threw 55 pitches (34 strikes) with two hits, two walks and four strikeouts, posting a 29% called-strikes-plus-whiffs rate, per Pitcher List Stats.
  • Both home runs came off his four-seam fastball, while his breaking balls were most effective as he leaned on 17 curveballs and 15 sweepers.
  • The Mets rookie impressed in 2025 with a 2.06 ERA and 57 strikeouts in 48 innings, becoming the first pitcher in franchise history to win his first four starts.
  • Selected to start Team USA’s pool-play finale, McLean drew praise from teammate Clay Holmes, who highlighted his stuff, poise and work ethic.