Nolan McLean’s WBC Arrival Delayed by Vertigo-Like Symptoms

This blog post shares an update on Nolan McLean as he works to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic. It covers his recent vertigo-like episode, his recovery, and what it might mean for the Americans’ pitching plans in Houston and beyond.

Nolan McLean’s Vertigo Episode and Recovery Timeline

The Mets right-hander showed up late to Team USA’s WBC camp after dealing with vertigo-like symptoms and a sudden loss of appetite on Friday night. Instead of heading to Scottsdale, he stayed with the Mets in Port St. Lucie.

He started feeling better on Saturday. By Sunday, he managed to throw on the side and has another session scheduled for Wednesday on the back fields.

If that goes smoothly, McLean should report to Team USA and could still start Game 4 against Italy. Team USA manager Mark DeRosa said McLean had a better day Tuesday, and the staff will keep a close eye on him as they finalize their roster by Friday.

McLean, 24, is just kicking off his rookie journey and aiming for his first full major-league season. He went 5-1 with a 2.06 ERA across eight late-season starts for the Mets last year.

He thinks the dizziness might be tied to inner-ear issues. He even remembered a similar vertigo spell back in high school that left him dizzy, even while standing still.

Team USA’s Pitching Plan and Roster Watch

Now that the vertigo episode seems to be behind him, Team USA still sees McLean as a key piece for their pitching staff. DeRosa pointed out how valuable McLean’s presence in Houston could be, especially since he’s been around Team USA for months.

The plan really depends on how he feels during Wednesday’s session and how quickly he can get back into his throwing routine. “We’d like him to join the squad,” DeRosa said, showing real confidence in McLean’s ability to contribute if he’s ready.

The timing’s still a bit up in the air as the roster deadline approaches, but people will be watching McLean’s path back to the mound closely over the next few days.

Rotation and WBC Opener Details

McLean’s status matters a lot as Team USA tries to figure out its rotation for the early rounds of the WBC. The club wants a strong start from its ace-leaning group, and here’s how the rotation looks for the opening games:

• Logan Webb gets the nod for Team USA’s World Baseball Classic opener Friday against Brazil.
• Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes are lined up to follow, which makes for a pretty intimidating early mix for DeRosa’s squad.

After the first week, McLean might influence a possible fourth start against Italy. That could add some extra depth to a pitching staff already packed with young talent.

If he shows he’s healthy and in command during Houston camp, there’s a real shot he joins the roster for that Game 4 assignment. That’d give Team USA a flexible arm for the post-season part of pool play.

Mets fans and WBC followers are watching to see if McLean can carry last year’s late momentum into a full season’s rhythm. He went 5-1 with a 2.06 ERA in eight late-season starts—pretty impressive, honestly.

Now, it’s just a matter of how quickly he can get back into live practice and maybe snag a spot in the WBC rotation. The Mets’ spring story could shift depending on what happens with his Team USA status. Who knows? Baseball’s always full of surprises.

 
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