5. Paul Blackburn – Refining pitch movement
Paul Blackburn arrived in New York at age 30 after an eight-year career with the Athletics. He brought along with him a career mark of 21-26. Jeremy Hefner has been a significant influence on the progress that Paul Blackburn has shown since joining the Mets, helping him refine his pitching repertoire and situational pitch selection.
Hefner worked with Blackburn to add more movement to his pitches, especially his sinker and sweeper. This included modifying his grip which has added more run to the sinker and horizontal movement to the sweeper. Hefner also has Blackburn experimenting with a cutter instead of a four-seam fastball, while emphasizing better use of his changeup. This strategy promotes keeping the ball on the ground and limiting hard-hit balls.
Hefner and the Mets staff have cleaned up some of Blackburn's motion issues, allowing him to maintain better velocity and location deeper into games. The Mets' guru is known for helping pitchers improve by enhancing game planning. By working with the Mets’ catchers and analytics team, Blackburn has become better prepared for specific hitters.
Hefner has helped Blackburn understand the art and science of pitching, allowing him to make more informed decisions on what pitches to throw and when. He has provided a open environment where Blackburn can feel free to adapt and improve, rather than being constrained by set ideas about his abilities.
4. Reed Garrett – Pitch Selection and Diversification
Reed Garrett came to the NY Mets at age 30 after stops with the Tigers, Orioles, Nationals and two years in Japan. His total major league career record stood at a mere 0-1. Jeremy Hefner has been instrumental in helping Garrett diversify his pitch selection and refine his pitching mix by reducing reliance on his four-seam fastball, while at the same time incorporating a cutter, sinker, sweeper, and splitter.
This strategic shift has significantly impacted Garrett's effectiveness and led to a breakout 2024 season that saw Garrett post a 3.77 ERA over 53 games. His success continued into 2025, with a remarkable 0.70 ERA over his first 26 appearances, including eight consecutive scoreless outings. Hefner has instilled confidence in Garrett by encouraging him to trust the process and believe in his abilities, even when facing challenges.
Hefner's coaching extends beyond technical skills. His focus is also on the mental aspects of the game. This has helped Reed Garrett maintain a positive attitude and resolve. The two men have developed a high level of trust due to the supportive and genuine nature of their relationship. Reed Garrett's emergence as a dominant reliever and setup man is largely attributed to the coaching and support that he has received from Jeremy Hefner.