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2w ago

Mets Rookie Nolan McLean Opens 4-0 With Sub-1.50 ERA, Joins Rare Company

Poise plus pitch-mix adjustments steadied a rotation seeking length.

Aug 27, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Nolan McLean (26) delivers a pitch during the third inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Aug 27, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Nolan McLean (26) reacts after the bottom of the eighth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • McLean worked six innings in Detroit with seven strikeouts and two earned runs, allowing four hits and two walks in a 12-5 win after retiring 14 consecutive batters following the first inning.
  • OPTAstats noted he is the second MLB pitcher since 1913 to start 4-0 with a sub-1.50 ERA and at least 25 strikeouts over his first four starts, joining Fernando Valenzuela’s 1981 run.
  • Through four outings he owns a 1.37 ERA, 25 strikeouts and a sub-1.00 WHIP across 26 1/3 innings.
  • The victory moved New York to 75-64, 5.5 games behind the Phillies in the NL East with a five-game Wild Card cushion over the Reds.
  • He became the first Mets pitcher to win his first four career starts, prompting praise for his preparation and for leaning on the sinker and changeup until regaining feel for his breaking pitches.