Nolan McLean was making his third career start for the New York Mets on Wednesday night against the Philadelphia Phillies. In the series’ first two games, the Mets’ starting pitchers did not get past the sixth inning.
In just his third start, McLean absolutely dominated in a 6-0 win for New York over Philadelphia. In the game, he pitched eight innings and gave up four hits. McLean walked no batters and struck out six. He also didn’t approach 100 pitches on the night, which was even more impressive considering the fact that the starting pitching has struggled for most of the season.
Nolan McLean could be the New York Mets’ potential ace moving forward
Mets fans will not dispute that David Peterson has been the best starting pitcher on the team before McLean. Since McLean arrived, the rotation has been different and better. He has a 3-0 record with a 0.89 ERA in his three games with New York. In 20.1 innings pitched, he has given up 10 hits and two runs. What has been impressive is that he has only walked four batters and struck out 21.
During the Phillies matchup, McLean had the Phillies hitters looking confused. He has faced quality lineups in all three games he has appeared in. This could go a long way if the Mets get into the playoffs. New York is four games back of the Phillies for the National League East lead, but the Mets have a 4.5-game lead on the Cincinnati Reds for the last wild card spot.
This fanbase has to ask themselves, who would they rather pitch in Game 1 right now? Peterson or McLean? Most will say Peterson, but if McLean continues to pitch like this, he may have to be in the lead. Undoubtedly, he could be the number one pitcher on this team when the 2026 MLB season rolls around.
There is also more help with the starting rotation for the Mets. Jonah Tong is expected to debut on Friday against the Miami Marlins. If Tong is just as good as McLean, this rotation has a chance to be dangerous when the playoffs begin.
MORE MLB NEWS:
