Righty Nolan McLean has continued to improve his game despite the New York Mets being on a seven-game losing streak. He has managed to pitch at least five innings in his first four starts of his rookie season. He boasts a 1–1 record with a 2.28 ERA, while the Mets’ record has fallen to 7–11.
“I know it’s tough right now, but the last thing you can do is panic or try to do too much. There’s always a sense of urgency, and they’re working,” manager Carlos Mendoza said of the team.
Going Through the Motions
After going 5–1 in four starts last season, the expectation was for McLean to develop further. Within the Mets’ pitching staff, he is one of the youngest players in a group of mostly seasoned veterans. But don’t let his age and lack of experience fool you.
In his first start of the year, Nolan McLean punched out seven batters in five innings. His only mistake was giving up two earned runs and a home run. He continued to succeed in his second start, posting four strikeouts in five innings and only allowing two runs to score.
More of the same followed in his third start, as McLean struck out eight batters in six innings. However, he began to lose control over the game, giving up two runs in a 7–1 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks. McLean maintained steady in his fourth start, posting eight strikeouts in seven innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers. But the Mets were unable to use his strong start to their advantage, dropping their eighth straight game to the Dodgers, 2–1. McLean surrendered the first run, and Brooks Raley allowed the go-ahead run to slip past him.
Turning The Tide
The Mets need to step up their game if they want to benefit from McLean’s performances. On the mound, he has found success, but the team needs to improve its offense. This will ensure they aren’t going to score or fall behind by multiple runs early.
Their next opportunity to execute this plan will come in game three of their series against the Dodgers. Clay Holmes will take the mound, while McLean won’t start again until next week. His time will likely come in their next homestretch against the Minnesota Twins. Although the Mets have had trouble finding success, they can look forward to another impressive start from Nolan McLean if he continues to improve.
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