Ahead of Wednesday’s matchup between the Mets and the Texas Rangers, manager Andy Green was asked about the key aspect of Nolan McLean’s game that needs improvement for him to reach the next level Green often references. Green highlighted the importance of the right-hander consistently throwing strikes and reducing walks, emphasizing this isn’t about diminishing his pitching ability but about maximizing the skills he already possesses—specifically knowing how to get ahead of hitters and finish at-bats effectively.
Throughout the season, Green has frequently challenged his young players—even following strong performances—because he believes they have more potential to unlock. True to his guidance, McLean took the mound and dazzled through four flawless innings. Yet, the rookie struggled in the fifth, allowing two runs on three hits and a walk. Interestingly, Green had nearly predicted this moment earlier in the day.
“I think he pitches well for much of the game, but then usually there’s one inning where he kind of loses it briefly before regaining composure and competing to get out of trouble,” Green explained. “The fewer times that happens—and he won’t be perfect—the more he escapes trouble by not getting into it in the first place.” This foresight underscores Green’s familiarity with these young players, having known them since his time as Senior Vice President for Player Development.
After the tough fifth inning, McLean regained his dominance, retiring six straight batters on just 13 pitches to finish the season. Even in that challenging inning, with the bases loaded and one out, he limited the damage to only one run. McLean reflected on the situation: “They were aggressive, and when a team is that way and you’re trying to fill up the strike zone, you rely a lot on your defense. Sometimes the balls just don’t find players, and that’s part of the game. I was trusting that eventually they’d hit it at someone, which helped me minimize the damage. My plan was to get to two strikes and then execute a pitch to get the out.”
He continued, “Going back out for the sixth, I stuck to the same plan without becoming tentative—even after giving up a few hits earlier.” McLean finished his rookie season with a 12-10 record and a 3.16 ERA, ranking eighth-lowest in the National League over 31 starts. Impressively, he was the only Mets starter to make every scheduled start this season, despite beginning the year pitching for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic.
“I take pride in competing every time I’m on the mound, regardless of how my stuff feels. For me, it’s about showing up and making every start,” McLean said. Meanwhile, Green praised McLean’s overall performance, noting the outing was not peak form but still highly effective. “His velocity was a bit down, which is understandable for the last game after a long season starting at the WBC. He competed incredibly well,” Green said. “That’s just who he is—finding a way to get it done even if he doesn’t feel his best. I’m proud of him and the season he’s had. He’s got plenty to build on, and I’m confident it won’t be long before he’s back to work and improving.”
When asked about McLean’s chances for NL Rookie of the Year in a strong class that includes teammate Carson Benge, Green wasn’t certain if he would be a frontrunner. Still, he didn’t doubt McLean’s status in the league. “He’s the best rookie pitcher in the National League, and I think that’s clear to everyone,” Green stated.
Fan Take: Nolan McLean’s promising rookie season signals a bright future not only for the Mets but for baseball fans craving fresh, dynamic pitching talent. His ability to adapt and compete under pressure embodies the next generation of pitchers who could redefine consistency and durability in the sport.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
