Paul Blackburn, a right-handed pitcher for the Mets, made another rehab appearance on the mound for Triple-A Syracuse this past Saturday after returning from a right shoulder collision in late June. His performances during these rehab starts have been promising, as he seeks another opportunity to join either the Mets’ rotation or bullpen.
In his recent outing against the Buffalo Bisons, the Triple-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, Blackburn pitched 5.1 innings, allowing two runs on three hits and issuing two walks. He threw 93 pitches, with 52 strikes—the highest pitch count in his rehab starts so far—and holds a 2.45 ERA across seven starts for Syracuse.
Overall, through 11 rehab appearances across different minor league levels, Blackburn has a 4-3 record with a 3.08 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP. However, his major league stats this season have been less impressive. Returning in June after nearly a year sidelined due to injuries and setbacks, Blackburn struggled in his mixed role as a swingman. In six MLB games (four starts), the 31-year-old posted an 0-3 record with a 7.71 ERA and a 1.98 WHIP.
With the Mets’ starting rotation currently healthy and bullpen fortified, Blackburn’s position on the team remains uncertain. Since being traded to New York at last season’s trade deadline, he has appeared in 11 games for the Mets (nine starts) but has seen limited success. Over his entire career, Blackburn has accumulated a 22-31 record with a 4.97 ERA.
Fan Take: Blackburn’s rehab progress is a hopeful sign for Mets fans looking for depth in pitching. His ability to bounce back from injuries could provide the team with valuable options, which is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in a demanding baseball season.
