The Mets head to Anaheim for a three-game series against the Angels starting Friday night, and there's plenty to keep an eye on. Here's what to watch and how the series might play out.

First up, all eyes are on right-hander Christian Scott. His first big league start since Tommy John surgery was rough—he lasted just 1.1 innings, walking five, hitting a batter, and surrendering one run, though he didn't allow a hit. The wildness was uncharacteristic; Scott walked only two batters in 13.2 innings at Triple-A Syracuse before his promotion, and his stuff looked sharp in spring training. It's fair to chalk it up to nerves. He'll get another shot in Friday's opener, and with Kodai Senga on the IL and David Peterson's rotation spot uncertain, the Mets are eager to see what he can do.

On the other side, Angels pitcher McLean is looking to build on a solid bounce-back outing. Last week against the Rockies, he allowed just two runs (one earned) over five innings, but it was the way he handled adversity that stood out. After cruising through the first three innings, retiring nine of the first 10 batters with six strikeouts, he hit a rough patch in the fourth, loading the bases and giving up a run-scoring single. But he escaped with a strikeout and double play, then retired the side in order in the fifth. That kind of resilience is why McLean has been dominant this season—he owns a 2.55 ERA, a 0.849 WHIP, and 45 strikeouts over 35.1 innings, good for an impressive 11.5 K/9 rate.

Meanwhile, Juan Soto has been on fire since returning from the IL. He's reached base 17 times in 34 plate appearances, including getting a hit in his first at-bat against the Nationals. His presence in the lineup gives the Mets a major spark, and the Angels' pitchers will have their hands full trying to contain him.

This series pits two teams with contrasting momentum. The Mets are looking to build consistency, while the Angels are hoping their pitching staff can step up. Expect a competitive three-game set with plenty of drama under the Anaheim lights. For fans and fantasy owners alike, keep an eye on Scott's command and McLean's ability to sustain his dominance—they could be the difference-makers.