Home / Sports / Mets Rookie Nolan McLean Dazzles in Debut, Aims to Lift Team's Playoff Hopes
Mets Rookie Nolan McLean Dazzles in Debut, Aims to Lift Team's Playoff Hopes
22 Aug
Summary
- Mets rookie Nolan McLean earned first career win in MLB debut last week
- Mets hold slim lead over Reds for final NL wild card spot
- Injuries to Nimmo and McNeil raise concerns for Mets ahead of Braves series
In a crucial moment for the New York Mets, rookie pitcher Nolan McLean stepped up and delivered a standout performance in his major league debut last week. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out eight batters across 5⅓ scoreless innings, lifting the Mets to a 3-1 victory over the Mariners and snapping a three-game losing streak.
Now, as the Mets enter a series against the Atlanta Braves on August 22nd, 2025, McLean will look to provide another spark for the team. The Mets currently hold a slim half-game lead over the Cincinnati Reds for the final wild card spot in the National League, but they trail the Philadelphia Phillies by seven games in the NL East.
However, the Mets face some injury concerns heading into the series. Both Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil are dealing with neck stiffness and a sore shoulder, respectively, and neither is in the starting lineup for the series opener. The Mets will need to overcome these challenges if they hope to maintain their playoff position.
For the Braves, who enter the series with a 58-69 record, Joey Wentz will take the mound against the Mets. Wentz has a 4-3 record and 4.72 ERA this season, and the Braves will be looking to play spoiler against their division rivals.
