Paul Blackburn is set to remain in New York after re-signing with the Yankees on Saturday night, according to several reports. The agreement is for one year with a guaranteed $2 million salary and potential incentives that could raise the total to $2.5 million.
Blackburn, 32, returned to the Yankees’ bullpen after being released by the Mets in August. He played in eight regular-season games for the Yankees last season, pitching 15.1 innings with a 5.28 ERA. He also appeared in Game 1 of the ALDS against the Toronto Blue Jays, giving up four earned runs on six hits, including a home run, in 1.1 innings.
Last season was challenging for Blackburn, as he faced injuries and struggled with a 0-3 record and a 6.85 ERA over seven games (four of which he started) for the Mets. He was designated for assignment on August 16 and subsequently released two days later before being traded to the Athletics at the 2024 trade deadline.
Throughout his career, Blackburn has mostly been a starting pitcher but has recently pitched out of the bullpen for the Yankees. Over eight seasons with the Athletics, he recorded a 21-26 win-loss record and a 4.83 ERA across 81 games, including 77 starts.
His contract includes bonuses for pitching beyond certain innings thresholds—$100,000 for exceeding 80, 90, 100, 110, or 120 innings. Blackburn’s career-high for innings pitched is 111.1, achieved in 2022 when he earned his only All-Star selection.
Fan Take: Blackburn’s return to the Yankees could inject valuable experience and depth into their pitching staff, making the bullpen stronger for critical games. This signing highlights the ongoing strategy of blending seasoned players with emerging talent to build a competitive and resilient team in Major League Baseball.
