Enhancing rotation by elevating McLean becomes Mets' strategy for troubled pitching lineup
New York Mets Promote Prospect Nolan McLean to Starting Rotation
The New York Mets have made a change in their rotation, with Nolan McLean set to make his Major League debut this weekend. The right-handed pitcher, who was a top prospect in the Mets system, has been promoted to replace Frankie Montas, who was sent to the bullpen after posting a 6.38 ERA in his first eight games, including seven starts.
McLean, aged 24, was born on July 24, 2001, in Willow Spring, North Carolina. He played college baseball for Oklahoma State before being drafted by the Mets in the third round of the 2023 MLB Draft. Initially a two-way player, McLean focused solely on pitching starting late June 2024.
In the minor leagues, McLean has shown impressive form. He posted a combined 3.78 ERA with 116 strikeouts over 109 2/3 innings pitched between High-A and Double-A levels. In 2025, he split time between Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse, compiling a strong 2.45 ERA and 1.13 WHIP, striking out 127 batters in 113 2/3 innings. Since being promoted to Triple-A in May 2025, he maintained a 2.78 ERA in 16 appearances (13 starts) with a 27.0 percent strikeout rate, ranking seventh among pitchers with at least 80 Triple-A innings.
McLean's mound maturity has been noted by both Mendoza and swingman Paul Blackburn. His pitching arsenal includes a mid-to-high 90s fastball and a sweeper that has been clocked in the mid-80s.
In his MLB debut on August 16, 2025, McLean pitched 5.1 scoreless innings, allowing two hits, four walks, eight strikeouts, and earning the win. He has a record of 8-5 and an ERA of 2.45 in 21 games, including 18 starts, between Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed confidence in McLean's ability to contribute to the team's success at the major league level. "Our expectation for Nolan is to help the Mets win baseball games," Mendoza said.
The Mets' rotation ranks sixth in the majors with a 3.70 ERA. However, the team's 591 innings pitched are the fourth-fewest in the majors. McLean's ability to go deep into games could provide a valuable boost to the team.
McLean last pitched for Syracuse on Sunday before being called up to the major leagues. He has reached at least 90 pitches seven times, most recently on Aug. 5.
As the first member of the Mets' 2023 draft class to reach the major leagues, McLean's debut will be closely watched by Mets fans and baseball enthusiasts alike. With his impressive minor league stats and promising debut, McLean is poised to make a significant impact in the Mets' rotation.
[1] Bio of Nolan McLean, MLB.com [2] Nolan McLean, Baseball America [3] Nolan McLean, Mets Minor League Stats [4] Nolan McLean, ESPN [5] Nolan McLean, MLB Pipeline
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