Paul Blackburn is a better NY Mets bullpen weapon than some fans may realize

In a season where the New York Mets keep unearthing unexpected value like a treasure hunt, Paul Blackburn might be the latest gold coin pulled from the sand. Making his Mets debut under the bright lights in Los Angeles, Blackburn delivered five shutout innings against the Dodgers. He didn’t rely on velocity. He didn’t have to. Mixing in a sharp curveball and well-placed changeups, Blackburn turned timing into his weapon. And with more arms set to return, his performance might’ve opened the door to a role that’s just as important, but far less discussed.

As other starters near their return, the NY Mets may have a valuable new option in Paul Blackburn to bolster their bullpen depth.

Paul Blackburn was the headline Monday night, and he earned it. Making his season debut after a stint on the injured list with right knee inflammation, the right-hander blanked the Dodgers over five innings, allowing just three hits and a walk while striking out three, including two against Shohei Ohtani. It wasn’t overpowering, but it was surgical. For the New York Mets, who already lead MLB in ERA, it wasn’t just a strong outing, it was the kind that opens the door to something more.

Looking back at last year’s numbers reveals why Blackburn could fit well in the bullpen. His curveball held hitters to a .125 average and a .208 slugging percentage, often drawing awkward swings. His changeup—arguably his most effective pitch—limited opponents to a .164 average while generating swings and misses nearly 35 percent of the time. His slider was tough to square up, with a .163 average and .245 slugging against. It’s not about flash, but about movement and keeping hitters off balance, a combination that can be especially valuable when hitters don’t get a second look.

With Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas on track to rejoin the rotation soon, Blackburn could shift into a role he hasn’t occupied regularly. Though he’s made occasional relief appearances, he’s never been used as a true bullpen arm. That could change. His off-speed mix might play up in shorter outings, giving the Mets a fresh look in the middle or late innings.

Blackburn isn’t resisting the idea either. After the game, he told SNY he’s open to any role the team needs. That kind of flexibility, combined with an off-speed arsenal built to generate outs, makes him one of the more intriguing under-the-radar options the Mets have. And if recent history has taught us anything, it’s that this team knows how to turn quiet weapons into loud advantages.

HIs strong debut and versatile pitch mix offer the Mets a valuable option as the roster evolves. Whether he settles into the bullpen or continues starting, his willingness to adapt and his ability to generate swings and misses give the Mets another piece to rely on. In a season full of surprises, Blackburn could be one more quietly effective weapon in New York’s arsenal.