Mets' Nolan McLean Overwhelmingly Favored for NL Rookie of the Year
New York Mets right-hander Nolan McLean has emerged as the decisive favorite to win the National League Rookie of the Year Award, according to a recent poll of MLB experts. Despite the Mets struggling with a 15-25 record and underperforming new core players like Marcus Semien and Luis Robert Jr., McLean has been a standout performer. The 24-year-old pitcher, who debuted late last season with impressive stats, has maintained his form in 2026. Through his first eight starts this season, McLean holds a 2.78 ERA and leads all qualified NL rookie pitchers in strikeouts (57), K/9 ratio (11.32), WHIP (0.90), and opponents' batting average (.180). In the expert poll, McLean received 23 first-place votes, far ahead of Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart, who secured six. McLean has effectively become the ace of the Mets' pitching staff, outperforming veteran Freddy Peralta. His consistent excellence not only positions him strongly for the rookie award but also makes him a potential candidate for the upcoming All-Star game, serving as a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for New York.
Wire timeline
Mets' Nolan McLean Overwhelmingly Favored for NL Rookie of the Year
New York Mets right-hander Nolan McLean has emerged as the decisive favorite to win the National League Rookie of the Year Award, according to a recent poll of MLB experts. Despite the Mets struggling with a 15-25 record and underperforming new core players like Marcus Semien and Luis Robert Jr., McLean has been a standout performer. The 24-year-old pitcher, who debuted late last season with impressive stats, has maintained his form in 2026. Through his first eight starts this season, McLean holds a 2.78 ERA and leads all qualified NL rookie pitchers in strikeouts (57), K/9 ratio (11.32), WHIP (0.90), and opponents' batting average (.180). In the expert poll, McLean received 23 first-place votes, far ahead of Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart, who secured six. McLean has effectively become the ace of the Mets' pitching staff, outperforming veteran Freddy Peralta. His consistent excellence not only positions him strongly for the rookie award but also makes him a potential candidate for the upcoming All-Star game, serving as a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for New York.
yahoo sports