Mets' Nolan McLean gets the start for the USA in WBC title game

Team USA is one win away from clinching its second World Baseball Classic title in the history of the tournament, and it will be New York Mets rookie Nolan McLean who will get the start, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports.

The U.S. awaits the winner of Monday’s game between Italy and Venezuela to face off against for the WBC championship. 

McLean last pitched in last Tuesday’s 8-6 upset loss to Italy, where he pitched three innings, giving up three earned runs. It was not his best performance, but he certainly relishes the opportunity to redeem himself as he talked about his mindset heading into the biggest game of his young career. 

“You’re crazy if you don’t want to do this, honestly. Just getting an opportunity to put USA on your chest and going out there and compete with the best players in the world. It’s an unbelievable experience for me.” McLean said, according to Alex Smith of SNY Mets. 

“As a competitor, I just want to go out there and compete and try to win and try to put my team in the best spot when I do come out of the game.” McLean continues, Alex Smith of SNY Mets reports.

McLean, who was called up late last season by the Mets, made an immediate impact upon arriving in the majors, posting a 2.06 ERA and 5-1 record in eight games started, earning votes for National League Rookie of the Year. He’s one of the top young pitchers in the sport, and what separates him is his maturity and the mettle he shows for the big moment, as Team USA manager Mark DeRosa said about McLean.

“I just think he's built for this - his mindset, his stuff, his want, all of it kind of led to him being a part of this team."

Nolan McLean gets his chance to show he's a true ace 

In the early stages of his career, McLean has shown he isn't afraid of the big moment and carries himself like a seasoned veteran rather than a pitcher who's just come into the league.  

The 24-year-old rookie will now get his opportunity to cement himself as an up-and-coming ace as he is entrusted to bring home the title for Team USA on the world's biggest stage. He has the talent and maturity to do so; executing it on the field while the whole world is watching is another test entirely. McLean is not afraid of the moment, however, and certainly sounds like he is ready for the challenge.