Major League Baseball team, the Mets, promote promising pitcher Nolan McLean to take the mound instead of Frankie Montas
Nolan McLean, a promising young pitcher, is set to make his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the New York Mets on Saturday against the Seattle Mariners. McLean, drafted by the Mets in the third round of the 2023 MLB draft, has shown exceptional pitching abilities in the minor leagues.
Having spent the majority of the 2025 season with Triple-A Syracuse, McLean has posted a commendable 2.78 ERA in 16 appearances (13 starts) for the team. His impressive performance has earned him a spot in the Mets' rotation, with manager Carlos Mendoza expressing confidence in his ability to give the team a chance to win games.
McLean's pitching arsenal includes an elite spin rate on his sweeper and curveball, with advanced breaking pitches that set him apart in the major leagues. His fastball velocity averages between 94-96 mph, reaching a top speed of 98 mph, consistent with his college performance at Oklahoma State University, where he was a two-way player.
Mendoza has been impressed by McLean's resilience and ability to handle adversity, as well as his control over the running game. He has also downplayed the pressure of a pennant race for McLean, stating that he is eager to give the young pitcher an extended look in the rotation rather than just insert him for one start.
In a recent move, the Mets demoted Frankie Montas to the bullpen, where he will work in long relief. Montas, who has struggled this season with a 6.38 ERA, has lost his rotation spot to McLean.
Brandon Sproat, another promising pitcher for Syracuse, was not selected for the promotion over McLean. However, Sproat has also been performing well recently, pitching at a high level after a rocky start to the season.
Mendoza's decision to promote McLean has been met with approval from players like Michael Conforto, who suggested that unexpected sources, like McLean, can have a significant impact on a team's success. Brandon Nimmo echoed this sentiment, stating that it's exciting to see young players like McLean step up and contribute to the team.
According to MLB.com, McLean is currently ranked as the No. 37 prospect in baseball. His promotion to the Mets further solidifies his status as the team's top pitching prospect and a valuable addition to their pitching depth.
[1] New York Mets [2] MLB.com [3] Baseball America [4] Minor League Baseball [5] MLB Pipeline
Nolan McLean's exceptional pitching abilities in the minor leagues have finally earned him a spot in the Major League Baseball (MLB), as he is set to debut with the New York Mets on Saturday against the Seattle Mariners. His promotion further solidifies his status as the team's top pitching prospect, as he is currently ranked as the No. 37 prospect in baseball by MLB.com.
