In West Palm Beach, Florida, Nolan McLean demonstrated the results of his offseason preparation during his Grapefruit League debut on Thursday, pitching four scoreless innings against the Houston Astros. The Mets’ promising rookie right-hander allowed only a single hit and one walk while striking out six batters, delivering 56 pitches when the plan called for 55. This strong performance comes as McLean prepares to join Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, moving from facing familiar teammates to competing against some of the sport’s top talent.
Detailed Performance Highlights McLean’s Pitching Skillset
Throughout his outing, McLean consistently reached fastball velocities of 96-97 mph, impressing Mets manager Carlos Mendoza with his control and pitch selection. Mendoza noted,
“There was a lot to like,”
adding,
“He’s got that ability to manipulate the baseball. When you see him throw changeups right-on-right, that’s pretty impressive.”
McLean effectively mixed his pitches, using his changeup to great success with seven changeups causing three whiffs, three called strikes, and three strikeouts.
McLean’s only hit allowed was an opening inning single to Jeremy Peña, but he quickly bounced back by striking out star shortstop Carlos Correa twice, and inducing outs from Christian Walker and Zach Cole. His situational pitching was on display when a runner on second base led to a wild pitch, allowing him to practice holding runners and adjusting his approach with scoring threats, a skill area the Mets pitching staff has worked to improve.
A lot of hitters’ approaches change with guys in scoring position,
McLean said.
So being able to work out of situations like that — not that I intentionally threw a wild pitch to get a guy in scoring position — it’s definitely good to get those reps early.
Offseason Routine Focused on Maintaining Momentum and Health
The 23-year-old right-hander from Oklahoma State did not halt his throwing after the season ended last year. Instead, McLean maintained a steady regimen of “athletic catch,” tossing the ball from distances of 60 to 90 feet nearly every day. This low-intensity throwing emphasized accuracy rather than velocity, aided by occasional football throws to diversify his workout. His athletic background as a redshirt quarterback and two-way player has contributed significantly to his physical durability and understanding of his own body’s limits.
I felt so good at the end of last season, I wanted to just keep my arm moving,
McLean explained.
I wasn’t necessarily still throwing bullpens full-time in the offseason, but I kept my arm moving for a while. Might have taken about a week off after the season, and just kept throwing. It allowed me to ramp up a little bit faster and pace myself.
Rapid Advancement Signals High Expectations for This Season
McLean’s swift progression from minor league camp to a key contributor in the majors last August highlights the Mets’ confidence in him. In his debut season, he won his first four decisions, including an eight-inning shutout performance against the Philadelphia Phillies. Had the team reached the playoffs, McLean was projected to start Game 1. Despite the Mets’ late-season elimination, McLean maintained his focus and conditioning all winter, and the team plans to use him in a piggyback role during the World Baseball Classic, allowing him to gradually increase his pitch count while entering games in clean innings.
He’s built differently. It’s as simple as that,
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said.
I don’t think any moment is too big for him.
Supporting Mets Players Continue to Develop in Spring Training
Besides McLean’s standout performance, other Mets players have shown encouraging signs during spring workouts. Luis Torrens contributed an RBI double in the second inning off Steven Okert, while Tyrone Taylor recorded a two-run home run, marking his first in Grapefruit League play this season. Second baseman Marcus Semien went 2-for-3, showing promising timing with a home run off left-hander Bryan King’s fastball, signaling readiness for the regular season.
Meanwhile, in Port St. Lucie, Jorge Polanco, Brett Baty, and Francisco Alvarez participated in a simulated game. Polanco took on first base duties for the first time in a competitive setting, as coaches emphasized defensive fundamentals such as pickoffs and controlling baserunners—key areas of focus for improving overall team defense.
Looking Ahead: McLean’s Role in Team USA and Mets’ Future Plans
McLean is scheduled to throw one final bullpen session before leaving to join Team USA in Arizona for a series of exhibition games. His role in the World Baseball Classic will likely be that of a relief pitcher in piggyback assignments, allowing him to build stamina in a high-pressure environment before returning to Mets camp for the regular season. Given his rapid climb to the major leagues in just one year, the Mets are optimistic he will continue to handle the demands of professional baseball with confidence and resilience.
