Nolan McLean has made reliability one of the biggest parts of his rookie season with the New York Mets so far. For the right-hander, that has been more important than any individual numbers he has put up.

McLean made that clear after Wednesday night's 7-2 win over the Texas Rangers. He allowed two runs on three hits over seven innings and struck out five. After the game, he was asked what he was most proud of from his first major league season.

However, his answer was simple.

“I think the biggest thing is just not missing the start,” McLean said. “I try to take pride in going out there and competing every single time. Whether I have my stuff or not, and that's just—that's what matters most to me is going out there making each start.”

Nolan McLean says he's most proud of not missing a start in 2026

"I try to take pride in going out there and competing every single time, whether I have my stuff or not" pic.twitter.com/unIYaLVeWP

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) September 24, 2026

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That approach has been important for McLean as the Mets dealt with several injuries in their rotation. However, the rookie has continued to take the ball every five days and give New York needed innings during a difficult season.

His durability was tested again recently after he was involved in a collision with Jared Young on the bases. The play raised questions about whether McLean would be able to make his next start, but he returned to the mound Wednesday and delivered one of his strongest outings of the month.

McLean, 25, has quickly become an important part of Andy Green's pitching staff. His consistency has also put him in the National League Rookie of the Year conversation after making a strong impression on both sides of the ball.