The United States has selected 24-year-old New York Mets rookie left-hander Nolan McLaine to start the World Baseball Classic championship game on March 18 (Korean time).
McLaine’s Thrilling Selection
Manager Mark DeRosa made the announcement after the U.S. edged the Dominican Republic 2-1 in the semifinal on March 16 (local time). McLaine expressed excitement about the opportunity, stating, “I was chosen as a starter. I’ve been waiting my whole life for a game like this.”
The U.S. team now awaits the winner of the Italy-Venezuela semifinal on March 17 before facing off for the title at LoanDepot Park in Miami at 9 a.m. on March 18.
Recent Hot Streak Fuels Momentum
McLaine has ridden a wave of success alongside the Americans’ eight-game winning streak, including victories over Canada, Italy on March 11, and an eight-inning win on March 14. Despite initially considering Minnesota Twins ace Joe Ryan from the Toronto Blue Jays roster, the team opted for the surging rookie.
In the prior matchup against Italy, McLaine delivered two home runs worth of strikeouts over three innings. He struck out the side in the second inning with two outs at 0-0, showcasing pinpoint control.
Key Moments in Italy Game
- 96.3 mph fastball to Kyle Tilge painted the corner for a called strikeout.
- 95.7 mph heater jammed Sam Antonacci, leading to a crucial double play.
No further baserunners reached after the third, though he threw 95 pitches. With 95 strikeouts this tournament, McLaine poses a significant threat to opponents.
Impressive Rookie Stats
Since debuting in the majors last August, McLaine has started eight games, logging 48 innings with a 5-1 record, 2.06 ERA, and 57 strikeouts, solidifying his role as the Mets’ next ace.
Bullpen Battles and Schedule Edge
In the Dominican Republic win, U.S. relievers like Tyler Rogers, Griffin Jax, Devin Bednar, Garrett Whitlock, and Miles Mikolas combined for 4 2/3 innings, allowing two runs, one walk, and six strikeouts over five arms with limited punchouts (2-22 range).
DeRosa praised the team’s preparation: “This schedule is perfectly arranged. It’s much better than 2023. Continuous three-day games burdened the bullpen too heavily last time.”
The U.S. enters the final undefeated in key matches—Italy, eight-inning thriller, and semifinal—building unmatched tournament momentum without injury concerns.
