Juan Soto, Nolan McLean’s epic 10-pitch Mets battle even featured Rock Paper Scissors

Dan MartinSat, February 21, 2026 at 5:18 AM UTC

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Nolan McLean and Juan Soto had an epic 10-pitch battle during the Mets' spring training session Friday.

Observations from Mets’ spring training on Thursday:

Old school

There was no ABS during Friday’s live batting practice at-bat between Juan Soto and Nolan McLean.

When there was a questionable call, Soto suggested a game of Rock Paper Scissors.

Juan Soto reacts during the Mets’ live batting practice on Feb. 20, 2026. Corey Sipkin for the NY Post

Nolan McLean throws a pitch during live batting practice on Feb. 20. Corey Sipkin for the NY Post

Soto won the contest, which led to a 10-pitch battle between the two that featured nothing but fastballs and ended in a Soto groundout.

Heads up

Ben Rortvedt, who battled plenty of injuries during his two years with the Yankees, managed to hit his head — twice — on a camera attached to the net right behind home plate during an at-bat in live batting practice.

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Fortunately, he escaped unscathed as he looks to stick with the Mets after joining the organization last week.

Caught my eye

Brett Baty is dealing with right hamstring discomfort, but he’s been able to get in some work at first base as he looks to gain more versatility.

He’s looked fairly comfortable there in early drills.

Saturday’s schedule

It’s the Mets’ Grapefruit League opener against Miami at Clover Park at 1:10 p.m.

Lefty Brandon Waddell is set to get the start for the Mets, with at least several regulars expected to be in the lineup.

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Source: “AOL Sports”