Trending Now - Mets Collapse After Mclean's Tough Debut Against Nationals

WHO:

MLB.com - Nolan McLean, New York Mets' No. 11 prospect Nick Morabito, manager Carlos Mendoza, and veteran outfielder Austin Slater.

MLB.com - James Wood, José Tena, A.J. Ewing, Carson Benge, and Zach Thornton.

WHAT:

NY Post - The Mets lost to the Washington Nationals with a score of 9-6.

MLB.com - Nolan McLean allowed nine runs (six earned) in five innings, marking the highest number of runs and earned runs he has allowed in his career.

MLB.com - McLean's ERA increased from 2.92 to 3.57 after the game.

MLB.com - Nick Morabito made his Major League debut, starting in left field and batting seventh.

WHERE:

MLB.com - The game took place at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.

WHEN:

MLB.com - Morabito's debut occurred on the same day as the game against the Nationals.

WHY:

MLB.com - The Mets were operating with a critically short bullpen after a 12-inning game, which influenced their decision to keep McLean in the game longer than usual.

MLB.com - The Mets designated Austin Slater for assignment to clear roster space for Morabito.

HOW:

MLB.com - McLean faced nine batted balls with at least 97 mph exit velocity, walked two batters, and hit two others during the game.

MLB.com - Morabito had previously worked on his power during the offseason, which was evident in his performance at Triple-A Syracuse, where he hit .253/.364/.390 with six doubles, a triple, four home runs, and 14 stolen bases.

(UPDATED May 20, 2026 04:19 UTC)

In a tough matchup at Nationals Park, the New York Mets fell to the Washington Nationals with a final score of 9 to 6, marking a challenging day for pitcher Nolan McLean, who allowed nine runs, six of which were earned, in five innings, raising his ERA from 2.92 to 3.57. It was also a notable day for Nick Morabito, who made his Major League debut, starting in left field and batting seventh, as the Mets designated veteran outfielder Austin Slater for assignment to make room for him. The Mets were dealing with a critically short bullpen after a grueling 12-inning game, which contributed to their decision to keep McLean on the mound longer than usual.