MLB Rumors: One Starting Pitcher Named Mets Most Likely Trade Candidate
As the 2025 MLB season rolls on, the New York Mets find themselves in an enviable dilemma—too many quality starting pitchers and not enough rotation spots.
And according to Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller, that depth is exactly why veteran right-hander Paul Blackburn has been identified as the Mets’ most likely trade candidate ahead of the July 31 trade deadline.
Blackburn, currently rehabbing from right knee inflammation, has been strong during his Triple-A outings. Most recently, he tossed seven scoreless innings with six strikeouts on 87 pitches—showcasing the durability and efficiency that contenders might be looking for in a back-of-the-rotation addition. Yet, with the Mets rotation performing at an elite level—featuring Kodai Senga, Clay Holmes, Tylor Megill, David Peterson, and Griffin Canning, all with ERAs under 3.15—there’s simply no room left for Blackburn.
Yankees Emerge as a Potential Trade Partner
One proposed solution? A rare cross-town trade. The New York Yankees, currently dealing with injuries to several starters, have expressed interest in bolstering their rotation. Miller floated the idea of a swap involving Yankees pitching prospect Cam Schlittler, noting that Blackburn’s affordability and experience make him an appealing short-term option.
Frankie Montas (lat) will begin his rehab assignment with High-A Brooklyn tomorrow. He will throw around 30, 35 pitches, according to Carlos Mendoza.
— Andrew Tredinnick (@andrew_tred) May 23, 2025
Paul Blackburn (knee) will make one more rehab start for Triple-A Syracuse on Tuesday.
“Blackburn checks a lot of boxes for teams seeking a veteran arm,” Miller wrote, pointing out that his $4.05 million salary makes him easily movable. For the Mets, acquiring a promising prospect like Schlittler—who owns a 2.47 ERA and 52 strikeouts in 43.2 innings at Double-A—would be a strategic depth play for the future.
Mets Face Tough Roster Decisions
With Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas also nearing returns, the Mets’ rotation logjam is only getting tighter. While Manaea is expected to reclaim a starting spot, it’s unclear where that leaves Blackburn. As Miller noted, “stretching him out in the minors suggests they’re preparing him to be moved—not used in long relief.”
Carlos Mendoza provides injury updates on pitchers Paul Blackburn, Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas https://t.co/kwnihmCyKG pic.twitter.com/yi8x9Z7LnB
— SNY (@SNYtv) May 20, 2025
Whether the Mets ultimately strike a deal with the Yankees or another contender, Blackburn’s situation remains one to watch closely as the deadline approaches.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
