New York Mets pitcher Nolan McLean earns Team USA starting role in WBC
New York Mets pitcher Nolan McLean has earned a starting role for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, completing a remarkable rise despite having just eight major league starts.
The 24-year-old will make his tournament debut against Italy on Wednesday.
He joins a formidable American rotation featuring established stars such as Logan Webb, Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes.
Team USA management have entrusted the inexperienced right-hander with a crucial role as they chase a first gold medal since 2017.
Elite arsenal earns international call-up
The former third-round draft pick possesses an elite pitching repertoire that ranks among the best in baseball.
His curveball features a major-league best 26 inches of break, complementing a sweeping slider that covers the entire width of home plate.
According to FanGraphs data, the rising star is one of only three pitchers to boast six pitches graded as average or better.
This devastating mix of pitches was on full display during recent spring training sessions, where his fastball was already clocking 98 mph.
“When I get on a mound and a guy’s standing in there, something just clicks in my brain where I’ve got to start competing.”
Nolan McLean
Rapid rise from college quarterback
The imposing 6ft 2in athlete enjoyed a unique path to professional baseball, previously standing out as a collegiate quarterback.
He was also a formidable power hitter before transitioning into a full-time pitcher just over a year ago.
Mets teammate Jonah Tong admitted that dealing with the prospect’s powerful deliveries during practice sessions has become a daunting task.
“It’s hard when he’s working on new pitches and I’m just like, nooooo.”
Jonah Tong
Should the American squad navigate the knockout stages successfully, the former dual-threat college star is lined up to pitch in a potential championship final.
