An insider has weighed in on whether the New York Mets are working toward a long-term deal with rising star Nolan McLean.
McLean has quickly emerged as a major success story for the Mets. Ever since being selected in the third round of the 2023 MLB Draft, expectations were high but few predicted just how dominant he would look in the majors.
In 2025, the 24-year-old posted an impressive 5–1 record with a 2.06 ERA and 57 strikeouts over 46 innings. Although his performance wasn’t enough to carry New York into the playoffs, it established him as one of the most exciting players heading into the 2026 season.
He had some struggles representing Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but praise from teammates and coaches has only reinforced the belief that he could be the Mets’ ace of the future. That raises an important question: how long will he remain in New York?
For now, Mets fans can feel secure knowing McLean is under team control through the 2031 season. Still, it may be wise for the organization to explore an extension sooner rather than later, before his value climbs even higher.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, there haven’t been any meaningful long-term contract discussions between McLean and the Mets yet. However, he noted that pursuing an extension would be a logical move given McLean’s performance and presence both on and off the field.
With his trajectory, McLean could command a massive payday if he reaches free agency in his prime. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns is likely aware of that possibility and may look to secure him long-term down the line.
For now, though, both McLean and the Mets appear focused on the upcoming 2026 season.
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