The New York Mets’ rotation took an early-season hit as right-hander Paul Blackburn will begin the 2025 campaign on the 15-day injured list with right knee inflammation, president of baseball operations David Stearns confirmed Wednesday. Blackburn, a pivotal offseason acquisition, suffered the setback following his final spring training outing, casting uncertainty over the Mets’ pitching depth ahead of their Opening Day clash with the Oakland Athletics.
Paul Blackburn’s road to recovery
The injury struck after Blackburn reported lingering soreness in his knee post-spring appearance. Medical staff administered a cortisone injection to alleviate inflammation, sidelining him from throwing for 7–10 days. Stearns remains optimistic, projecting Blackburn’s return by late April if rehab progresses smoothly. “We expect him back sooner rather than later,” Stearns noted, emphasizing caution to avoid long-term complications.
Paul Blackburn’s absence exacerbates a thinning rotation already missing Sean Manaea (oblique strain) and Frankie Montas (lat tightness). However, there’s a silver lining: Manaea has resumed light throwing, while Montas’ recent MRI showed “good healing,” hinting at a potential May return.
Mets’ Pivot: Kranick and Brazobán Step Up
With three starters sidelined, the Mets will lean on depth arms Max Kranick and Huascar Brazobán to fill the void. Kranick, a former Pirates prospect, impressed this spring with a 2.89 ERA over 12 innings, while Brazobán’s high-velocity fastball adds a swing-and-miss element to the bullpen. Their performances could dictate whether the Mets tread water or sink in a competitive NL East.
Position Player Shakeup: Acuña’s Opportunity, Baty’s Redemption
The roster ripple effects extend beyond the mound. Top infield prospect Luisangel Acuña—brother of Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr.—snagged the final Opening Day spot, capitalizing on a stellar spring (.318 AVG, 2 HR) and defensive versatility. Acuña may start at second base against lefties, leveraging his speed and contact skills.
Meanwhile, Brett Baty secures an everyday role at second base in Jeff McNeil’s absence (oblique). After a tumultuous 2024 that saw him lose third base to Mark Vientos, Baty rebuilt his stock this spring with a .294 average and sharp defensive reps. “I earned this,” Baty declared, channeling renewed confidence.
Why Blackburn’s health matters
Paul Blackburn’s knee issue isn’t just a short-term hurdle—it tests the Mets’ rotation resilience. The 30-year-old’s ground-ball prowess (career 48% GB rate) and durability (180+ IP in 2023) are vital for a staff leaning on veterans like José Quintana and Kodai Senga. Without him, the Mets risk overworking their bullpen early in a grueling schedule.
As Blackburn rehabs, all eyes turn to Kranick’s debut and Acuña’s transition to MLB pitching. The Mets’ depth will face immediate scrutiny against an Athletics lineup hungry to exploit any weakness. For now, Stearns’ mantra is clear: “Next man up.”