Mets Pitcher Battling ‘Unusual Injury’ with No Clear Return Date

The Mets now have a better understanding of what’s been troubling left-hander Paul Blackburn’s back. Mets president of baseball operations, David Stearns, shared on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park that Blackburn is dealing with a spinal fluid leak in his mid-back, calling it a “rare injury for a baseball player.”

Despite how it sounds, Stearns reassured that it isn’t a long-term concern, though Blackburn has been on the injured list since August 24 with a right-hand contusion. Blackburn first reported the discomfort after a bullpen session at Citi Field ahead of his scheduled start in Toronto last week.

With a clearer diagnosis, the team is now working with specialists to determine the best course of treatment and how soon he might be able to return to the mound. “We’re still gathering more information before we can estimate a timeline for his return,” Stearns said, noting the injury is especially tricky given Blackburn’s role as a pitcher.

In Blackburn’s absence, Tylor Megill will continue in the rotation. Megill, in 13 appearances this season, has posted a 4.48 ERA with 73 strikeouts and leads the team’s starters with a 27% strikeout rate.

Blackburn initially went on the IL after taking a line drive to the hand in an August 23 game. Despite hopes he’d avoid a lengthy absence, lingering stiffness led to his current stint on the IL. Through 14 starts this season, Blackburn has a 4.66 ERA, though his 5.18 ERA with the Mets has been skewed by a couple of tough outings. In his other starts, he’s allowed only three earned runs over 18 innings, equating to a much sharper 1.50 ERA.