McLean Shines in Mets’ Victory Over Braves
ATLANTA – When Nolan McLean took the mound on Friday, the Mets were already leading by seven runs, which is quite the luxury for a starting pitcher. But McLean was determined to keep his focus during his second major league start.
The rookie held his ground effectively, showing a solid performance as he extended his outing to seven innings and allowed just two runs in the team’s 12-7 win against the Braves at Truist Park. This marked a departure from a streak that began on June 7th, where Mets’ starters, aside from David Peterson, struggled to complete six innings.
During that stretch, Peterson had managed to pitch nine games with six or more innings, but McLean’s performance added some much-needed depth to the rotation.
The offensive side of things was just as impressive for the Mets. Brett Baty made a splash with his first career four-hit game, going 6-6. Francisco Lindor also had a noteworthy night, reaching base four times, while Juan Soto contributed the team’s only home run, marking his seventh two-run homer of the season.
Collectively, the Mets managed an impressive 21 hits, balancing out their offensive prowess with a strong showing from five starters, each collecting at least three hits. In total, they recorded an 18-8 advantage in runs scored.
But much of the buzz was centered on McLean, who struck out seven batters and held on to what he had learned from his debut, where he walked four. This time around, he didn’t issue any free passes at all.
McLean’s outing wasn’t without its challenges. He faced some tight spots, especially when he allowed his first earned run as a major leaguer, courtesy of Jurickson Profar. Still, he managed to escape a tricky situation with a double play, and his efforts allowed the Mets to build on their lead.
Following a few strong hits by his teammates—like Baty’s double and Cedric Mullins’ two-run triple—the Mets extended their advantage steadily throughout the game.
Of course, the Braves attempted to mount a comeback, with Ronald Acuña Jr. hitting a homer to cut the Mets’ lead. However, McLean quickly regained his composure, retiring the next three batters thereafter.
As the game progressed, Soto’s seventh two-run homer highlighted the Mets’ dominant offensive display, pushing the score to 9-2. By the time the eighth inning rolled around, Senger contributed a two-run single, and Soto helped cement a late 12-2 advantage.
Despite a rain delay in the final innings, the Mets maintained their grip on the game. Relievers Reed Garrett and Ryan Healthley did give up a few runs but managed to hold on for the win.
