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.
The United States defeated Mexico 5-3 in the World Baseball Classic at Houston’s Daikin Park on Monday night, driven by a crucial third-inning home run from Aaron Judge.
Roman Anthony also delivered a three-run blast during that decisive third inning to help secure the victory.
This triumph improves the American squad’s Group B record to 3-0 ahead of their upcoming clash with Italy.
Securing a win against the undefeated Italians on Tuesday would guarantee the host nation a spot in this weekend’s quarter-finals.
Skenes shines as Americans avenge past defeat
Reigning National League Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes delivered a dominant pitching performance to stifle the opposition.
The talented starter allowed just a single hit and struck out seven batters across four flawless innings.
His efforts on the mound helped his country avenge an 11-5 loss suffered against the same opponents during the 2023 tournament.
A hostile, sellout crowd of 41,628 fans watched the action unfold, providing a predominantly pro-Mexico atmosphere inside the stadium.
Duran provides resistance with two home runs
Jarren Duran proved to be the standout performer for the defeated side by hitting two impressive home runs.
The Mexican slugger launched a solo shot off Matthew Boyd in the sixth inning before repeating the feat in the eighth.
Reliever Griffin Jax was eventually required to escape a late jam, inducing a double-play from Alejandro Kirk to end the eighth-inning threat.
Mexico now hold a 2-1 tournament record and must defeat Italy on Wednesday to keep their own progression hopes alive.
Puerto Rico brushed aside pre-tournament controversy to defeat Colombia 5-0 in their World Baseball Classic Pool A opener at a vibrant Estadio Hiram Bithorn on Friday.
The hosts put weeks of administrative turmoil behind them to deliver a dominant performance in San Juan.
A capacity crowd of 18,793 had initially feared the absence of key stars would derail the campaign before a pitch was thrown.
However, the atmosphere transformed from resentment regarding insurance complications into a carnival of rhythmic percussion once play began.
Overcoming red tape
Notable absentees included Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa after insurance providers tightened regulations following the previous tournament.
Those stricter rules were influenced by the season-ending injury suffered by closer Edwin Díaz while celebrating a win over the Dominican Republic during the last iteration of the classic.
Despite threats from the local federation president José Quiles to withdraw the team entirely in January, the two-time runners-up proved they possess depth beyond their headline icons.
The frustration regarding the missing Major League Baseball talent dissipated as the Caribbean nation took control of the game.
Trusting the youth
Manager Yadier Molina insisted the squad remained focused on the field rather than the boardroom politics.
“We’re not going to bow our heads,” the Puerto Rico boss said.
“We trust our talent, we trust our pitching, we trust the defense. We’re going to score. We’re going to run the bases.”
The squad have continued the ‘Team Rubio’ tradition, bleaching their hair blond in a nod to the 2017 finalists.
While lacking some high-profile names, the group is heavy on young prospects seeking to establish a foothold at the sport’s highest level.
“We believe that these guys are ready for this event,” added Molina.
Chasing a historic title
Puerto Rico hold the second-most wins in the history of the competition but have yet to lift the trophy.
Having finished as runners-up in both 2013 and 2017, the team arrived in San Juan with a familiar objective.
Edwin Díaz, now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, compared the current hunger within the dressing room to previous successful campaigns.
“I compare this team to the team in 2017, which was the first tournament for many of us, and we were able to do big things,” said the closer.
“I believe that all of us, including myself, have the same hunger to win.”
Shohei Ohtani struck a dramatic grand slam as defending champions Japan opened their World Baseball Classic campaign with a crushing 13-0 victory over Taiwan.
Ohtani lights up the Tokyo Dome
The two-way superstar delighted a sell-out home crowd on Friday, driving in five runs during a dominant performance in Pool C.
Japan exploded for 10 runs in the second inning alone, effectively ending the contest before it had truly begun.
After doubling on the very first pitch of the game, the Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter returned to the plate later in the second frame with the bases loaded.
He launched a drive off starter Hao-Chun Cheng deep into the right-field stands to make it 4-0.
The inning lasted 28 minutes as the hosts batted around the order.
Ohtani eventually secured his third hit of the game later in the same frame, capping a devastating offensive display.
The 30-year-old nearly hit for the cycle but lined out on a leaping catch by first baseman Nien-Ting Wu in the fourth inning.
Mercy rule invoked early
The match was called after seven innings under the tournament’s mercy rule.
Regulations state a game concludes after seven innings if one team holds a lead of 10 runs or more.
Japan added three further runs in the third inning to push the scoreline to 13-0.
While the offence grabbed the headlines, starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto was efficient on the mound.
Last season’s World Series MVP struck out three batters and allowed no hits, though he walked two in the third inning before being relieved by Shoma Fujihira.
Japan, the heavy favourites to reach the final in Miami, will next face rivals South Korea on Saturday.
Australia maintain perfect start
Elsewhere in Pool C, Australia improved their record to 2-0 with a 5-1 victory over Czechia.
Chicago White Sox infielder Curtis Mead provided the decisive moment with a three-run homer in the third inning.
The Czechs had taken an early lead via a sacrifice fly from Vojtech Mensik but could not contain the Australian batting lineup.
Pitcher Josh Hendrickson earned the win for Australia, who reached the quarter-finals of the previous tournament three years ago.
The United States have been tipped to reclaim the World Baseball Classic title in 2026, edging out the Dominican Republic and defending champions Japan in pre-tournament predictions.
The 2023 runners-up are slight favourites to lift the trophy when the global tournament returns.
A panel of baseball experts narrowly selected Team USA over a star-studded Dominican Republic side.
Japan, who defeated the Americans in the thrilling 2023 final, are ranked as the third favourites to retain their crown.
Star-studded American roster
Team USA boasts a squad packed with Major League Baseball MVPs and emerging talent.
New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge headlines a formidable lineup capable of overpowering any pitching staff.
He is joined by burgeoning superstars such as Bobby Witt Jr and Pittsburgh Pirates pitching sensation Paul Skenes.
This depth has resulted in a unanimous prediction for the hosts to top Pool B.
Mexico are expected to claim the second qualifying spot from the group, though Italy remains a threat.
Dominican Republic and Venezuela dominate Pool D
The Dominican Republic are viewed as the primary challengers to American dominance.
Their roster features global icons including Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Fernando Tatis Jr.
Experts were unanimous in predicting the Caribbean nation would advance from Pool D alongside Venezuela.
The Venezuelan squad will rely on the talents of former MVP Ronald Acuna Jr and Milwaukee Brewers standout Jackson Chourio.
Samurai Japan favored elsewhere
Samurai Japan are expected to cruise through the opening stage in Pool C.
South Korea are widely tipped to join the defending champions in the quarter-finals.
In Pool A, Puerto Rico’s experience is expected to see them finish ahead of Canada.
The Puerto Rican squad leans on the defensive prowess of Nolan Arenado and the relief pitching of Edwin Diaz.
Potential tournament upsets
While the favourites seem set, some underdog nations could spring a surprise in the pool stages.
Italy, featuring Kansas City Royals sluggers Vinnie Pasquantino and Jac Caglianone, are seen as dark horses in Pool B.
Australia also harbour hopes of advancing from Pool C behind the hitting of number one draft pick Travis Bazzana.
Team USA are aiming to reclaim the World Baseball Classic title this month as a star-studded roster looks to emulate the nation’s recent Olympic ice hockey success.
Despite the sport being revered as ‘America’s Pastime’, the United States are not the reigning world champions.
Japan hold the crown after winning three of the previous five editions of the tournament.
The Samurai Japan defeated the US on American soil in a thrilling 2023 finale to cement their dominance on the international stage.
A rivalry renewed
That 2023 decider provided one of the most dramatic conclusions in the sport’s history.
Shohei Ohtani faced his then-Los Angeles Angels team-mate Mike Trout in the final at-bat, striking out the American captain to clinch a 3-2 victory.
The United States have now assembled a formidable lineup to challenge the Japanese dynasty, with Great Britain among the teams standing in their path during the group stages.
Tournament structure and hosts
The World Baseball Classic (WBC) has evolved significantly since its inception in 2006.
It replaced the Baseball World Cup as the sport’s official world championship following the 2011 season.
This year’s format sees 20 teams divided into four pools playing a round-robin system.
The top two nations from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.
Hosting duties are shared globally, with Pool C matches taking place in Tokyo and Pool A games held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Houston and Miami will host Pools B and D respectively, with Miami’s LoanDepot Park staging the semi-finals and the final from 15-17 March.
Channelling the Olympic spirit
Historically, America’s elite players were often reluctant to participate in the WBC, prioritising spring training or injury rehabilitation.
However, the prestige of the event has soared since the US team’s victory in 2017.
The current tournament boasts the highest calibre of talent ever assembled, featuring the holders of MLB’s four most prestigious individual awards.
Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes, and Tarik Skubal are all set to feature.
New York Yankees slugger Judge, a three-time Most Valuable Player, will make his Classic debut as captain of the national side.
He leads a roster that includes Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper and Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh.
In a bid to instil a winning mentality, the squad has even sought counsel from legendary swimmer Michael Phelps.
The most decorated Olympian of all time spoke to the team as they attempt to mirror the gold-medal winning exploits of their ice hockey counterparts.
Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar is facing a 162-game suspension after reportedly testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time in 12 months.
Significant financial and sporting penalties
The 33-year-old is set to forfeit his entire $15m (£11.9m) salary and has been ruled ineligible for the postseason.
He becomes only the sixth player to receive a full-season ban since Major League Baseball (MLB) toughened penalties for repeat offenders in 2014.
The suspension also rules the Curacao native out of the upcoming World Baseball Classic, where he was scheduled to represent the Netherlands.
A major setback for Atlanta
The loss of the experienced hitter is a significant blow to the Braves as they attempt to recover from a disappointing 76-86 campaign.
Atlanta have already lost starting pitchers Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep to elbow injuries ahead of the new season.
This latest development follows a troubled period for the former top prospect, who served an 80-game suspension starting on 31 March last year for using human chorionic gonadotropin.
That specific substance is a hormone typically produced during pregnancy which can encourage testosterone production.
“It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it.”
Jurickson Profar speaking after his first violation
Line-up reshuffle required
The Braves signed the versatile infielder to a three-year deal worth $42m (£33.3m) last January following a career-best season with the San Diego Padres.
Despite missing half of the previous campaign due to his initial ban, he returned in July to hit 14 home runs with 43 RBIs while playing in left field.
Following off-season hernia surgery, the plan was to utilise him as the designated hitter near the top of the order, potentially behind Ronald Acuna Jr.
His absence places increased pressure on key figures including Matt Olson, Austin Riley and new signing Mike Yastrzemski to generate offence.
While catcher Sean Murphy is expected to return, giving rookie Drake Baldwin opportunities in a hitting-only role, the club must now navigate the entire season without their projected number two hitter.
Shohei Ohtani has set his sights on winning a Cy Young award as the Los Angeles Dodgers star prepares to return to full-time pitching duties following his rehabilitation.
Pitching coach Mark Prior initially feared that managing the Japanese superstar’s workload would be compromised by his offensive responsibilities.
However, the two-way phenomenon quickly dispelled those concerns with an obsessive attention to detail between innings.
Prior revealed that the 31-year-old treats every trip to the dugout as a comprehensive review session.
Instead of resting, the former Angels standout convenes with his catcher and coach to dissect pitch execution and hitter reactions.
Mission to dominate on the mound
These strategic discussions often take place while the designated hitter is hurriedly equipping himself for the on-deck circle.
Dodgers officials have noted two distinct personalities from the three-time MVP winner depending on his role.
While relaxed as a batter, his demeanour shifts to a visible intensity when taking the mound.
"He seems like he’s on a mission, pitching-wise," said Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers’ president of baseball operations.
"Whenever we’ve seen him on a mission, good things happen."
Chasing history after 50/50 season
Following a second UCL repair that limited him to batting duties in 2024, the world’s highest-paid athlete responded by founding the 50/50 club.
He became the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single campaign.
Friedman now believes that same laser-focused dedication is being applied to his pitching return.
Teammates are already anticipating another record-breaking year for the singular talent.
"There’s no ceiling with him," said Dodgers catcher Will Smith.
"He can go out there and win a Cy Young this year. I have no doubt about that."