Nolan McLean's Gritty 11-Strikeout Performance Keeps Mets' Playoff Hopes Alive

New York Mets rookie right-hander Nolan McLean delivered a pivotal, albeit imperfect, performance on September 26, 2025, striking out a career-high 11 batters over 5.1 innings in an 8-5 road win against the Cubs. This crucial outing kept the Mets' postseason hopes alive, securing sole possession of the NL's third wild-card spot. McLean was responsible for all five runs, including two solo homers to Seiya Suzuki and Dansby Swanson, and a three-run blast by Suzuki that ended his night at 94 pitches. Despite the blemishes, manager Carlos Mendoza praised McLean's poise, adjustments, and effective use of his cutter. The 24-year-old, making just his eighth MLB start, received significant run support and 3.2 scoreless innings from the bullpen. McLean boasts a stellar 2.06 ERA with 57 strikeouts across 48 innings this season. He remains eligible for rookie status next season, a factor the Mets are considering as they plan to keep him fresh for a potential Wild Card series.