Nolan McLean started the decisive game for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic final and, despite putting in a remarkable performance, knows he could have given a little more against such a high-caliber opponent.
“I could’ve executed a little bit better. But he’s a really good player (Wilyer Abreu) at the same time. I would love to go back and make a different pitch obviously,” he said via SNY.
In the top of the 5th inning with the score 1-0, and after a called strike, McLean tried to challenge Abreu with a 96 mph fastball right down the middle, but the Venezuelan outfielder crushed a monstrous 412-foot home run to dead center field.
Another elusive final for Team USA
Following their loss 3-2 to Venezuela, Team USA has now faced two consecutive WBC final defeats, adding to their 2023 loss against Japan.
Team United States.
Despite these recent setbacks, they remain proud of their lone championship title earned in 2017 after defeating Puerto Rico, a title they will aim to replicate in 2030.
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Aaron Judge reflects on Team USA’s emotional WBC loss to Venezuela
McLean already focused on the Mets
Despite Carlos Mendoza picking Venezuela over USA, the Mets manager showed himself very proud that Nolan McLean was the starting pitcher for his nation.
In Queens, they are waiting with open arms for one of their top prospects. In his 2025 debut season, McLean posted a 5-1 record with a 2.06 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP across 8 starts.
In 48 innings, he struck out 57 batters (10.7 K/9), becoming the first pitcher in franchise history to win each of his first four career starts.
