Nolan McLean's Journey to the World Baseball Classic Amid Health Concerns

Nolan McLean, a promising pitcher for the New York Mets, faced a setback ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) due to vertigo-like symptoms. Initially scheduled to join Team USA on March 2, McLean experienced dizziness and a loss of appetite, prompting the Mets to keep him in Port St. Lucie, Florida, for evaluation. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that while McLean's symptoms were concerning, they did not believe the issue to be serious. “We just decided to play it smart and keep him here under our watch before he goes out there,” Mendoza stated.

Is Mets’ Nolan McLean still pitching in WBC after experiencing ‘vertigo-like symptoms’?HeavyNewsdaySports IllustratedNewsweekNewsweekMets RHP Nolan McLean (vertigo) day-to-day, expects to make WBC startNolan McLean's arrival to WBC delayed by vertigo-like symptomsAM New York

After a few days of rest and treatment, McLean reported improvement in his condition. He successfully threw four innings in a simulated game on March 4, stating, “I had no symptoms out there throwing, which was the ultimate test.” Following this performance, he expressed optimism about joining Team USA, aiming to start in their fourth pool play game against Italy on March 10. McLean noted, “Hopefully, I can leave here in the next day or so,” indicating his eagerness to participate in the tournament.

New York Times

McLean is set to be a key player in Team USA's pitching rotation, which includes notable pitchers such as Logan Webb, Tarik Skubal, and Paul Skenes. Manager Mark DeRosa has highlighted McLean's potential role, stating that he could start in the championship game if the team advances. This opportunity is significant for McLean, who has quickly established himself as a valuable asset after a successful debut season with the Mets, where he recorded a 5-1 record and a 2.06 ERA in eight starts.

New York Times

Mendoza confirmed that McLean's symptoms had subsided, allowing him to continue his training regimen. “As of right now, he’s going to be cleared,” Mendoza said, emphasizing the importance of McLean's health before joining Team USA. DeRosa also expressed confidence in McLean's ability to contribute, stating, “We have until [Friday] to finalize the roster, but certainly he's been with us for the last three, four months and we'd love for him to join us.”

Nolan McLean's arrival to WBC delayed by vertigo-like symptoms

While McLean's health has improved, some critics have raised concerns about the potential impact of his recent illness on his performance. The quick turnaround from health issues to competitive play could pose risks, especially in high-stakes games like the WBC. Observers are watching closely to see if McLean can maintain his form under pressure.

Is Mets’ Nolan McLean still pitching in WBC after experiencing ‘vertigo-like symptoms’?

As the WBC approaches, McLean's participation remains contingent on his continued recovery. If he successfully completes his upcoming training sessions, he is expected to travel to Houston to join Team USA. The tournament runs from March 5 to March 17, with the possibility of McLean playing a crucial role in the later rounds, depending on Team USA's performance.

Is Mets’ Nolan McLean still pitching in WBC after experiencing ‘vertigo-like symptoms’?

• “I had no symptoms out there throwing, which was the ultimate test,” — Nolan McLean, New York Mets Pitcher

New York Times

• “He had symptoms and he reported some dizziness. We just decided to play it smart and keep him here under our watch before he goes out there.” — Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

Newsday

• “It’s a great honor, but there’s a lot of baseball to be played,” — Nolan McLean, on his potential start in the championship game.

AM New York