Mets face another setback with Paul Blackburn and Dedniel Núñez out due to injuries
The New York Mets are facing a significant challenge in their pitching rotation, with five of their top eight starting pitchers currently on the injured list. In the latest setback, Paul Blackburn and Dedniel Núñez have joined the list, adding to the team's depth problem.
Blackburn, initially slated to be a bullpen piece, is now sidelined due to a right shoulder impingement, ruling him out for the upcoming Subway Series against the Yankees. Núñez, on the other hand, has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right elbow sprain, which may require surgery.
The Mets have recalled right-handers Justin Hagenman and Rico Garcia from the minors in corresponding moves to fill the vacancies left by Blackburn and Núñez. However, the absence of other key starting pitchers such as Tylor Megill, Griffin Canning, Sean Manaea, and Kodai Senga, who are all dealing with injuries, has left the team short-handed.
Manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged the challenge, noting that the team is managing the situation on a day-to-day basis and considering all available options to navigate the rotation difficulties. Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns also emphasized the need to evaluate all possibilities, but believes the team has alternatives to handle this immediate concern, suggesting a potential short-term issue more than a long-term one.
Paul Blackburn made his 2025 debut on June 2 after dealing with knee inflammation during rehab. However, in his last five outings, he allowed 17 runs (16 earned), limiting his impact with the team. Dedniel Núñez only appeared in 10 games this season after recovering from an elbow injury. He posted a 3.00 ERA in six innings after returning on June 22, including a scoreless sixth inning during the Mets' 7-3 win over Milwaukee. However, his initial appearances were less successful, resulting in his option to Triple-A.
As the Mets prepare for important games like the Subway Series against the Yankees, they are forced to rely on less-established pitchers for the near term. The team will hope for a swift recovery for their injured players, including Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea, who are slowly returning from the injured list.
Sports have taken a toll on the New York Mets, with their baseball schedule becoming more challenging due to multiple football-like injuries within their pitching rotation. The recent additions to the injured list, Paul Blackburn and Dedniel Núñez, have put additional strain on the team's thinning pitching depth.
