Mets Rookie Nolan McLean Achieves Rare 4-0 Start in MLB
UPDATE: Rookie pitcher Nolan McLean has made history by becoming the first pitcher in New York Mets franchise history to start his career with a 4-0 record, leading the Mets to a commanding 12-5 victory over the Detroit Tigers on September 5, 2023. This remarkable achievement marks him as the first MLB pitcher to accomplish this feat since Chase Anderson in 2014.
McLean’s performance was nothing short of outstanding as he retired his final 14 batters after a shaky first inning. He finished the game with 7 strikeouts, allowing just 2 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks. Notably, he is the first pitcher since Jered Weaver to win his first four career starts while allowing two or fewer runs in each game, a feat accomplished in 2006.
As of now, McLean’s 28 strikeouts through his first four starts rank second in Mets history, just behind the legendary Nolan Ryan, who had 29 strikeouts in his initial appearances.
“Another impressive outing for him,” said Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. “We all saw how in that first inning… he didn’t have command of those pitches. A couple of walks, and they got him with a couple of singles there. That’s what you call pitching,” he added, praising McLean’s ability to adapt and secure the win.
The Mets showcased their offensive firepower as well, with Pete Alonso hitting two home runs, bringing his season total to 33. Juan Soto also contributed significantly, hitting his 37th home run of the season, including five in the last five games. The team secured their place in the postseason race, now sitting five games ahead of Cincinnati for the final National League wild card spot.
The Tigers, currently leading the AL Central, have struggled recently, losing seven of their last nine games. Alonso’s first home run was a jaw-dropping 435-foot blast in the first inning, landing between the first and second rows of shrubs behind center field. The Mets exploded for a six-run seventh inning, giving them a comfortable lead.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on McLean and the Mets as they aim to solidify their playoff position. Fans are eager to see if McLean can maintain his stunning form and continue to break records in the coming games.
