New York, NY – Nolan McLean, pitcher for the New York Mets, has officially surpassed a remarkable feat in MLB history, joining legendary right-hander Randy Johnson as the only two players to achieve a perfect 100 unblemished strikeouts in their inaugural seasons. The announcement came following the Mets’ decisive 6-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies last night, marking McLean’s 100th strikeout of the season.
The milestone solidified McLean’s place as one of the most dominant rookie pitchers in recent memory, showcasing a skillset that quickly captivated fans and baffled opposing hitters. His performance, characterized by exceptional command and a devastating changeup, earned him the National League Rookie of the Year award, an accolade he accepted with characteristic humility.
“It’s surreal, honestly,” McLean stated in a post-game press conference. “I knew I was throwing well, but to be recognized alongside Randy Johnson… it’s an honor beyond words. I just focused on executing my game plan each night, and the results followed.”
Johnson, who achieved the feat during his 1989 debut with the Arizona Diamondbacks, offered his congratulations to McLean. “He’s got a special talent,” Johnson remarked via video conference. “It takes a tremendous amount of dedication and focus to reach that level. Nolan’s a competitor, and he’ll be a cornerstone of the Mets’ pitching staff for years to come.”
Throughout the 2025 season, McLean consistently demonstrated remarkable consistency, limiting opposing batters to a .187 batting average and a .688 OPS. His 100 strikeouts represent a significant portion of the league’s total, highlighting his impact on the game.
The Mets organization expressed immense pride in McLean’s accomplishment. “Nolan’s work ethic and talent are truly exceptional,” said Mets General Manager David Klein. “He exemplifies everything we look for in a young player, and we are thrilled to have him as a member of our team.”
McLean’s record remains unchallenged, solidifying his legacy and cementing his status as a rising star in Major League Baseball. The accomplishment will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2025 season.