Importance of Pitching Talent and Depth
When it comes to pitching, having elite talent is vital, but so is depth. The ability to find pitchers who can “eat innings”—by stepping in during less critical situations or filling out rotation spots competitively—plays a key role in alleviating stress on the main staff. Occasionally, pitchers labeled as innings eaters can rise to more significant roles and impact the game dramatically.
Paul Blackburn’s Journey
Paul Blackburn spent nearly eight seasons with the Athletics before being traded to the Mets during the 2024 Trade Deadline. His career showed glimpses of promise, especially during a strong rookie year at 23, recording a 3.22 ERA in 10 starts. However, injuries repeatedly hindered his progress. The move to Queens provided him with a chance to prove himself on a competitive team, but after a year, he struggled significantly, conceding 35 runs in 48 innings with a rate of 11.6 hits allowed per nine innings. The Mets ultimately decided to let him go last August.
2025 Performance and Yankees Transition
In the 2025 season, Blackburn recorded 39 innings, a 6.23 ERA, and a WHIP of 1.51. Following his release from the Mets, he quickly joined the Yankees, who were in urgent need of bullpen support due to injuries. Unfortunately, his first outing was disastrous, yielding seven runs and pushing his season ERA above 8.00. Nonetheless, he bounced back impressively, allowing only two earned runs over the next 12 innings across seven appearances, primarily in non-high-pressure situations.
Playoff Roster and Performance
Blackburn’s late-season resurgence landed him a spot on the Yankees’ playoff roster. However, during his only appearance in the ALDS against Toronto, he allowed four runs in just 1.1 innings, which only added to the team’s struggles in that game.
Contract and Future Outlook
As a free agent after the season, Blackburn re-signed with the Yankees in January for one year at $2 million. With key starters like Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón expected to miss the start of the season and other relievers departing, the 32-year-old provides affordable depth. His contract includes performance incentives tied to innings pitched, suggesting he may need an extended starting opportunity to meet those benchmarks.
Comparison to Connor Weaver’s Success
Interestingly, Blackburn’s early Yankees experience mirrors that of Connor Weaver, who joined the team in September 2023. Weaver also started as a reliever but excelled as the Yankees’ closer during their 2024 pennant run after re-signing for the next season.
Pitching Style and Future Role
Blackburn’s pitching strategy evolved, shifting from relying heavily on his cutter with the Mets to increasingly using his sinker. His effectiveness varies based on opponents, with lefties hitting .417 against his cutter but faring better against his breaking pitches. The ZiPS projections anticipate Blackburn appearing in 21 games with 15 starts, though this role is currently filled by Ryan Yarbrough. Overall, re-signing Blackburn appears to be a low-risk move for the Yankees, allowing him a chance to demonstrate his value amid team adjustments due to injuries.
