Nolan McLean’s path to Team USA hit a brief detour due to vertigo-like symptoms
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — McLean’s World Baseball Classic participation was delayed by a few days after the Mets pitcher reported what his manager described as “some vertigo-like symptoms” last Friday.
The 24-year-old experienced dizziness and a reduced appetite, though Mendoza noted the symptoms had improved by Saturday. He was originally set to join Team USA in Arizona on Monday, but the Mets chose to hold him in Port St. Lucie for a few extra days to ensure the issue had fully resolved.
McLean threw a side session on Sunday and then visited the Mets’ facility on Monday’s off-day to play catch and consult with the medical staff. Mendoza indicated McLean would throw in a Minor League game on a back field on Wednesday.
“He has to pitch for us tomorrow,” Mendoza said. “If everything goes as planned, he’ll go.”
Mendoza added that McLean’s symptoms had disappeared and that no tests were conducted after the initial report.
“He reported some dizziness, so we decided to play it smart and keep him here under our watch before he goes out there,” Mendoza explained. “After talking with the doctors, as of now, he’s cleared.”
McLean remains on track to start for Team USA in a March 10 game against Italy. Team USA manager Mark DeRosa told reporters on Monday that they would reassess McLean’s status on a day-to-day basis.
