NEW YORKOn Thursday, the Yankees signed former Mets right-hander Paul Blackburn to a major league contract, adding length and depth to their bullpen.
Blackburn’s turbulent, injury-plagued season in Queens came to an end earlier this week when the Mets designated him for assignment and fired him.
Due to travel difficulties, the righty was not able to join the Yankees in Tampa on Wednesday for their series against the Rays.
Allan Winans, a right-hander, was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to create place for Blackburn on the active roster.
Blackburn’s success in the major leagues is evident, according to Yankees manager Aaron Boone. A well-built man who can provide us with some coverage in the event that we require some actual length.
Blackburn’s right knee soreness put him on the Mets’ injured list at the beginning of the season. It wasn’t until June 6 that he made his 2025 debut with the Mets. His right shoulder impingement sent him back to the injured list after six appearances, including four starts.
The right-hander made a comeback from his shoulder injury and pitched five innings of two-run ball out of the bullpen in a Braves loss on August 13—just before he was fired by the Mets. Three days later, his assignment was announced.
“I think it’s a good place to start over,” Blackburn said, adding that it was difficult.
Blackburn recorded a 4.66 ERA in 75 1/3 innings pitched with the A’s and Mets last season. Prior to last summer’s trade deadline, he was moved to the Mets.
Blackburn cited the Yankees’ roster quality as his favorite aspect of this opportunity with the team.
It’s clear that talent can be found wherever. incredibly well-positioned for the postseason. The New York Yankees are here!
Blackburn’s time in pinstripes may not last long because relievers Ryan Yarbrough and Fernando Cruz are nearly ready to return from the Yankees injured list. But going forward, the Yankees will value his ability to chew up innings out of the bullpen.
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