Juan Soto not only had a quiet debut in the season opener but also watched as the New York Mets dropped their first game on the road—a painful start to his tenure. However, things could turn around soon, as one of his teammates said he’s feeling better from a knee injury and could return to bolster the defense.
In a recent report, Mets pitcher Paul Blackburn said his knee has improved and he could be back on the mound in a few days. “I should be able to start throwing on my feet on Monday,” he said.
If Soto gets a veteran arm like Blackburn back in the rotation—after the right-hander battled knee inflammation—it could provide a much-needed boost. The pitcher noted that “everything has progressed really well,” referencing that he received treatment on his knee less than a week ago.
In 2024, Blackburn managed to show some ability, albeit limited, with the Mets as a starter in 5 games, since during that MLB season he also played 9 games as a starter for the Athletics. With the Mets, he posted a 5.18 ERA over 24.1 innings pitched.
Projection for Blackburn in 2025
If Blackburn manages to return and contribute to the defense alongside Soto, the Mets could have a pitcher on the roster projected at 6-6 with a 4.37 ERA. Of course, these projections are roughly based on what he achieved last season with the team, but he could easily surpass 10 starts with the Mets.
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This season would mark the first time Blackburn is entirely removed from the Athletics, the team where he spent the majority of his career since his debut in 2017. In 2022, he had his peak season with 21 starts and a 4.28 ERA.
