The New York Mets entered Wednesday night needing a spark, their roster battered by injuries and their playoff hopes in danger of fading. What they got instead was a performance that could redefine the season. Rookie pitcher Nolan McLean delivered eight scoreless innings against Bryce Harper‘s Philadelphia Phillies, carrying the Mets to a decisive 6–0 win at Citi Field.
For Carlos Mendoza, the first-year manager balancing expectations with reality, the moment was surreal. Just two weeks ago, he had urged caution when fans began clamoring for McLean to be the team’s savior. Yet with every pitch, the rookie made his case stronger, dominating one of baseball’s best lineups with a calm presence that belied his inexperience.
The victory not only sealed a sweep of the Phillies but also tighten