One day after Venezuela eliminated Japan in the World Baseball Classic, it’s now the turn of the United States to fight for a spot in the Final, where they had hoped to face off against Shohei Ohtani. That matchup will not happen, but Team USA must first get past the Dominican Republic to reach the championship game, where a New York Mets pitcher could become the big protagonist.
Nolan McLean projected to start the WBC Final
It’s time to consider that Mets pitcher Nolan McLean could have the opportunity to redeem himself in the World Baseball Classic after a tough outing against Italy in the first round.
The 24-year-old threw only three innings, striking out four batters, but he also allowed two home runs along with two walks. He was charged with the loss after giving up three earned runs in the surprising 8-6 defeat to Italy.
Now, if the United States gets past the Dominican Republic, he would be the starting pitcher for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic championship game, according to a report from Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
Meanwhile, Sandy Alcántara is expected to start for the Dominican Republic on Tuesday if they advance.
If the United States reaches the Final, they will face either Venezuela or Italy, where the Mets pitcher could become the hero-or the player blamed for a defeat-depending on his performance in the championship game.
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