Nolan McLean's World Baseball Classic Final

It's March 16th for the New York Mets. Let's get into it.

Nolan McLean is gearing up for a big moment in the World Baseball Classic Final.

The New York Mets pitcher struggled in his first start for Team USA against Italy,

giving up three runs over three innings and an 8-6 loss.

But the Americans bounce back strong, beating Canada 5-3 in the quarter-finals,

and edging the Dominican Republic 2-1 in the semis 2.

Reached the championship for the third year in a row.

That tough outing forced the U.S. to depend on Italy to knock out Mexico and advance.

Now McLean could face Italy again in Tuesday's title game against the winner of their matchup with Venezuela.

The U.S. pitching staff shown in the playoffs with Paul Schienz throwing four plus innings of one run ball against the Dominicans backed by a tight, bullpen.

McLean calls pitching in these high-stakes games a dream come true for any competitor.

He says wearing USA on your chest and battling the world's best is an unbelievable thrill,

and players who skip it are missing out big time.

Guys like Tark Skuball and Joe Ryan headed back to spring training instead,

prioritizing health in contract years.

McLean had a solid rookie year last season with the Mets,

posting a 2.06 earned run average over eight games.

He struck out 57 and walked to 16, keeping his rookie eligibility for next year.

Some of his Mets teammates, including pitcher Christian Scott,

might head to Miami to cheer him on Tuesday.

McLean is all in, ready to deliver for his country in the spotlight.

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