Mets' Paul Blackburn to Begin Season on Injured List with Knee Inflammation

The veteran pitcher, sidelined after losing a rotation spot, is expected to return in April as the Mets finalize their Opening Day roster amid pitching challenges.

Paul Blackburn, 31, will start the 2025 season on the injured list due to knee inflammation, with a return anticipated in April after a 7-10 day shutdown period.
Blackburn, originally slated for a bullpen role, lost a rotation spot to Griffin Canning during spring training after posting a 5.68 ERA in five starts.
Injuries to key starters Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas have forced the Mets to rely on depth, with Max Kranick and Huascar Brazoban named to the bullpen.
Catcher Hayden Senger, a non-roster invitee, and infielder Brett Baty, filling in for the injured Jeff McNeil, have made the Opening Day roster.
Blackburn's health remains a concern after multiple injuries in 2024, including a hand contusion and a cerebrospinal fluid leak that ended his season early.