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Mets Send Message to Paul Blackburn After Dodgers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated Jun 3, 2025 10:15 AM ET

The New York Mets are rolling, improving to 38-22 on Monday night with a thrilling 4-3 win in 10 innings at Dodger Stadium.

New York now won four straight and sits 1.5 games ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East.

Monday night’s game was filled with drama. The Mets led 2-1 going into the bottom of the ninth, but Shohei Ohtani tied it up with a clutch hit. In the 10th, the Mets responded with two runs to secure the win.

One of the game’s big stories was the return of right-hander Paul Blackburn. Making his first appearance of the season, Blackburn looked sharp on the mound.

After the game, the Mets sent a strong message:

"Welcome back, Blackburn!"

Welcome back, Blackburn!@moomooApp | #LGM pic.twitter.com/LJVXCDgROc
— New York Mets (@Mets) June 3, 2025

Blackburn threw 77 pitches over five strong innings, allowing just three hits and no runs. He struck out three, walked one and left the game in line for the win. The bullpen was unable to hold the lead in the final four innings.

The 31-year-old righty had been on the injured list since March 26 with right knee inflammation. His last outing came in a spring training game on March 17 against the Marlins.

Blackburn joined the Mets in a trade with the Athletics on July 30, 2024. He made five starts with New York last season, going 1-2 with a 5.18 ERA. In October 2024, he underwent a procedure to repair a cerebrospinal fluid leak, sidelining him until March.

A 2022 All-Star, Blackburn made his MLB debut with Oakland on July 1, 2016. That breakout 2022 season saw him go 7-6 with a 4.28 ERA, striking out 89 and walking 30 over 111.1 innings.

Injuries have hampered his career, as he’s only managed two full seasons with 20 or more starts.

Still, Monday night was a promising step for both Blackburn and the Mets, who continue to find ways to win as summer heats up.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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