Rookie Pitcher Nolan McLean Leads Mets to Victory Over Braves

On August 23, 2025, the New York Mets found a much-needed boost in their starting rotation as rookie pitcher Nolan McLean delivered an impressive outing against the Atlanta Braves. Making just his second major league start, the 23-year-old McLean showed poise and maturity beyond his years, allowing four hits and two runs in seven innings to lead the Mets to a 12-7 victory.

The game took place on a special night for the Braves, as the team celebrated the 30-year anniversary of their 1995 World Series championship. A bevy of former Braves stars, including Hall of Famers Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, and Chipper Jones, were honored in a pregame ceremony. Despite the star-studded atmosphere, McLean remained focused and unfazed, impressing Mets manager Carlos Mendoza.

"At this point, I don't know what else to say about it," Mendoza said of McLean's second consecutive strong performance. "You come in here and he's probably got a lot of people in the stands, and against (that) team, and on a special night where they're celebrating the 1995 team, and for him just to go out there and compete and be himself -- it's not easy to do."

McLean, who grew up a Braves fan in North Carolina, said it was "kind of surreal" to pitch against the team he admired as a child, especially with Smoltz, Glavine, and Maddux watching from the stands. The young right-hander also had the chance to meet his childhood hero, Chipper Jones, prior to the game, further adding to the memorable experience.

Mendoza believes McLean's performance on such a big stage shows the rookie's potential to become a star. "This just goes to show you, man, that this kid is special," the manager said.