UPDATE: Rookie Nolan McLean has made history, leading the New York Mets to a resounding 12-5 victory over the Detroit Tigers on September 5, 2023. This win marks McLean’s 4-0 start in the MLB, making him the first Mets pitcher to achieve this feat in his first four starts and the first pitcher in the majors to do so since Chase Anderson in 2014.
In a standout performance, McLean retired his last 14 batters, finishing with seven strikeouts while allowing only two runs on three hits and three walks. His impressive start has put him in elite company; he is now the first pitcher since Jered Weaver in 2006 to win his first four starts while allowing two or fewer runs in each game. McLean’s 28 strikeouts through his first four starts rank second in Mets history, just behind the legendary Nolan Ryan, who had 29 strikeouts.
Manager Carlos Mendoza praised McLean’s ability to adjust after a challenging first inning, stating,
“Another impressive outing for him… he was able to make adjustments and find a way to get through five or six innings.”
McLean’s resilience at such an early stage in his career is a promising sign for the Mets, who are currently five games ahead of Cincinnati for the final National League wild card spot.
The Mets offense was equally explosive. Pete Alonso hit two home runs, including a remarkable 435-foot drive in the first inning, while Juan Soto and Luis Torrens also contributed with home runs. Soto’s 37 home runs in his debut season with New York have made significant headlines, and he has hit five homers in the past five games. Alonso’s second homer of the night brings his season total to 33.
Despite the defeat, the Tigers are struggling, having lost seven of their last nine games, highlighting the growing challenges they face in the AL Central. The Mets are on a roll, and with their latest win, they continue to solidify their postseason hopes.
As the MLB season progresses, all eyes will be on McLean and the Mets as they aim to maintain momentum. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if McLean can continue his remarkable start and lead the Mets deeper into the playoff race. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
