The New York Yankees have added right-handed pitcher Paul Blackburn, picking him up after the Mets designated him for assignment and he cleared waivers last week. Blackburn, 31, will work out of the bullpen in New York, and in a related move, the Yankees optioned right-hander Allan Winans to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Blackburn’s Mets tenure this season saw him post a 6.85 ERA and a 1.64 WHIP over 23.2 innings in seven appearances (four starts). His time with the club stretched from the second half of last season to just a few days ago and was interrupted by injuries, including a cerebrospinal fluid leak that required surgery last October. In 24.1 innings for the Mets in 2024, he had a 5.18 ERA and a 1.56 WHIP. He is set to be a free agent after the season.
This signing adds bullpen depth for the Yankees as they navigate a busy schedule down the stretch. Blackburn brings a mix of reliever experience and swingman potential, though his latest injury history and recent performance will be factors the team will evaluate as the season progresses. With free-agent status looming after the year, a strong showing in New York could help bolster his market value, while also giving the Yankees a flexible arm for both bullpen duties and spot starts if needed.