Blackburn Starts: Mets vs. Dodgers Opening Day
- Paul Blackburn is poised to make his return to the major leagues with the New York Mets, marking his first appearance in over nine months.manager Carlos Mendoza announced...
- Blackburn, 31, a meaningful trade deadline acquisition last year, made five starts for the Mets before a comebacker sidelined him.
- But just being able to kind of get past that and get to where I am now … It’s been fun.”
Paul Blackburn is ready to pitch for teh mets against the Dodgers on Opening Day after battling injury. The Monday series opener marks his first appearance in over nine months following a year riddled with a spinal leak and knee issues. this spot start provides needed rest for the rest of the rotation. Initially acquired during the trade deadline, Blackburn aims to return to form, likely transitioning to a long relief role soon. His career record stands at 22-28 with a 4.85 ERA. News Directory 3 provides in-depth coverage on moves like these. Could this be his comeback story? Discover what’s next to shake up this season?
Blackburn Ready for Mets Return After Injury slog
Updated May 31, 2025
Paul Blackburn is poised to make his return to the major leagues with the New York Mets, marking his first appearance in over nine months.manager Carlos Mendoza announced Saturday that Blackburn will start Monday’s series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This move will provide extra rest for the other starters in the rotation.
Blackburn, 31, a meaningful trade deadline acquisition last year, made five starts for the Mets before a comebacker sidelined him. What followed was a challenging period of injuries, illness, and rehabilitation. A spinal leak ended his 2024 season prematurely. Despite entering spring training healthy, right knee inflammation landed him back on the injured list in late March, further elaborate by an illness. The Mets have been cautious in their approach to reintegrating him into the rotation.
Now, Blackburn’s prospect arrives against the Dodgers.
“It feels good, obviously,” blackburn said. “The last 10 months have been mentally a lot. But just being able to kind of get past that and get to where I am now … It’s been fun.”
While Blackburn’s initial role is expected to be a spot start, he will likely transition into a long relief role. However, injuries or other unforeseen circumstances could alter those plans. The veteran right-hander has a career record of 22-28 with a 4.85 ERA across 82 starts and four relief appearances.During his seven minor league rehab starts, he posted a 3.68 ERA.
What’s next
Following his start, Blackburn is expected to move to the bullpen, but his role could expand depending on team needs and performance.