A new ranking of the rookies primed for big seasons in 2026 declared that New York Mets prospect Nolan McLean is the best in baseball, and that he could be the club’s ace by the playoffs.
McLean only made eight starts in 2025, but he completely took New York and the baseball world by storm. The third-round pick in the 2023 MLB Draft went 5-1, posted a 2.06 ERA, and struckout 57 batters in just 48 innings. He was dominant, and his stuff was electric.
The 24-year-old gave NY Mets fans hope they might have another homegrown ace on their hands. However, it would not be surprising if McLean regressed during his first full season in the big leagues, as opposing teams get more tape on him and can develop a better game plan to expose and attack any weaknesses he has.
Yet, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden doesn’t see that happening, and is a big believer in the talents of the NY Mets rookie.
Will Nolan McLean be the NY Mets Game 1 starter by the playoffs?
“His breaking pitches are wipeout offerings, and his aggressiveness early in counts shows his competitiveness, confidence, and poise. He is a good athlete who was a two-way player in college and at the start of his pro career. His potential and ceiling are so high,” Bowden wrote after placing McLean at No.1 on his list of rookies primed for big seasons in 2026.
The former MLB general manager was very complimentary of Nolan McLean’s skill set. However, he offered up a bold piece of praise that is sure to surprise many NY Mets and baseball fans.
“I won’t be surprised if, come the postseason, he’s the Mets’ Game 1 starter, with Freddy Peralta slotting behind him. That’s how much I love his potential,” Bowden proclaimed.
If Freddy Peralta is as good as he was in 2025, and Nolan McLean proves he should be their Game 1 starter to begin the postseason, New York will have a serious threat to reach the World Series this fall.
