Mets Pair Clay Holmes and Nolan McLean Join Team USA for 2026 WBC

Team USA continued to shape its roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic on Wednesday, announcing the additions of right-handed pitchers Clay Holmes and Nolan McLean. Both pitchers are set to make their WBC debuts, bolstering a staff that already includes reigning National League Cy Young winner Paul Skenes, Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan, and veteran Matthew Boyd. The move strengthens a pitching corps that had previously seen limited confirmed commitments.

For months, Skenes had remained the only confirmed pitcher on Team USA, with manager Mark DeRosa acknowledging that several high-profile pitchers, including Max Fried, had declined invitations. The arrival of Holmes and McLean addresses concerns about rotation depth, providing reliable arms ahead of the March tournament that overlaps with MLB spring training.

Holmes, 32, comes off a strong first season as a full-time starter with the Mets. Previously a reliever for most of his career, Holmes transitioned to the rotation on a three-year, $38 million deal. He appeared in 33 games last season, including 31 starts, throwing 165 2/3 innings with a 3.53 ERA and 129 strikeouts, making him one of New York’s most dependable starters.

McLean’s rise has been swift. The Mets drafted the 24-year-old right-hander in the third round in 2023, and he made his MLB debut last August. In eight starts and 48 innings, McLean posted a 2.06 ERA, a 1.04 WHIP, and 57 strikeouts, signaling the potential to contribute at a high level for Team USA.

1. Clay Holmes’ Transition to Starter

Holmes’ move from reliever to starter has been pivotal for both the Mets and Team USA. After spending 2019–2024 primarily in relief, Holmes embraced his first season in the rotation, demonstrating durability and consistency over a career-high workload. Appearing in 31 starts, Holmes threw 165 2/3 innings, finishing with a 3.53 ERA and 1.304 WHIP. His 129 strikeouts marked a personal best, showing his ability to maintain effectiveness over extended outings. The workload and reliability make him an ideal candidate for a WBC rotation that requires pitchers to handle multiple appearances in a short timeframe. Holmes’ experience and poise in high-leverage situations also make him a valuable asset for Team USA. His background as a reliever provides flexibility, allowing manager DeRosa to use him in various roles if necessary during tournament play. The Mets’ investment in Holmes’ starting role paid dividends for New York, and his presence on the international stage will be a key factor in Team USA’s chances of success in Houston and beyond.

2. Nolan McLean’s Rapid Rise

Nolan McLean’s ascent to the major leagues has been rapid but impactful. Drafted in 2023, McLean made his MLB debut just a year later, quickly showing the ability to compete at the highest level. Over eight starts with the Mets last season, McLean posted a 2.06 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, and 57 strikeouts in 48 innings. His early success demonstrates both command and poise, qualities that will be critical in the high-pressure WBC environment. McLean brings a different dynamic to Team USA’s pitching staff. At 24, he combines youth with a fresh arm, providing depth and flexibility for both starting and relief roles if needed. His presence complements veterans like Holmes, Boyd, and Skenes. For the Mets, having McLean gain international experience early in his career also provides developmental benefits. Exposure to elite competition in a tournament setting can accelerate his growth and prepare him for long-term contributions at the major league level.

3. Mets and Team USA Context

Team USA’s roster now balances pitching depth with a strong core of position players, including Kyle Schwarber, Gunnar Henderson, Will Smith, Aaron Judge, Brice Turang, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Corbin Carroll, Bobby Witt Jr., and Cal Raleigh. Holmes, McLean, Skenes, Boyd, and Ryan anchor the mound, giving the team multiple experienced and emerging options. The Mets will be well represented internationally. In addition to Holmes and McLean on Team USA, Mark Vientos will compete for Nicaragua, and Francisco Lindor will play for Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, Dominican Republic star Juan Soto has yet to confirm participation. The 2026 WBC is scheduled from March 5 through March 17, with Team USA opening Pool B play against Brazil on March 6 at Daikin Park in Houston. The tournament’s timing presents unique challenges for MLB players and teams, particularly with spring training looming. With the additions of Holmes and McLean, Team USA’s pitching staff now features a mix of proven talent and promising young arms, positioning the roster as one of the most competitive in the upcoming tournament.