Mets’ Paul Blackburn bounces back with key curveball success. Paul Blackburn bounced back from a rough start to the Mets’ homestand with a solid performance on Sunday, but the New York Mets ultimately fell 3-2 to the Miami Marlins at Citi Field. Despite allowing just one earned run over six innings, Blackburn was left with a no-decision, as the Mets’ offense couldn’t provide the necessary support to secure a win.

Blackburn, acquired from the Oakland Athletics at the trade deadline, showcased a marked improvement from his previous outing. Over 92 pitches, the right-hander gave up four hits, walked one batter, and struck out four. This performance was a significant rebound from his last start against the A’s, where he was shelled for six earned runs over just four innings.

The key to Blackburn’s success on Sunday was his reliance on his curveball, which he discussed in the post-game. He mentioned leaning on catcher Luis Torrens, who had never caught him before, to help guide his pitch selection. Blackburn’s curveball, which he had felt confident about during bullpen sessions, proved effective throughout the game. “The curveball in the bullpen is something I had feel for and then the first couple of innings I did as well,” Blackburn said. “And then we kind of just kept it moving.” This strategy allowed him to maintain control and effectiveness on the mound, despite the pressure of a close game.

In addition to Blackburn’s performance, the Mets saw the return of outfielder Starling Marte, who had been sidelined since June 22 due to a bone bruise in his right knee. Marte, starting in right field, went 1-for-3 with a single. His return was a welcome boost for the Mets, though the team is still managing his workload cautiously. Marte was removed before the start of the seventh inning, with Tyrone Taylor shifting from center field to right and Harrison Bader entering the game. This move may hint at manager Carlos Mendoza’s plans for handling Marte’s defensive contributions, given that Marte’s defense had been an area of concern earlier in the season.

Marte expressed confidence in his recovery and readiness to contribute fully. “There are no restrictions for me,” he said. “Everybody knows how aggressive on the bases I can be and I will continue to do that. When I get a chance to do it I will.” Marte’s return adds depth to the Mets’ outfield, which has also been bolstered by the addition of Jesse Winker from the trade deadline.

The Mets’ roster moves also included designating Ben Gamel for assignment to create space for Marte. Gamel’s departure opens up opportunities for other players, such as Marte and Winker, to make an impact.

Looking ahead, Dedniel Nunez is scheduled to make his first minor league rehab appearance on Tuesday since being placed on the injured list last month with a right pronator strain. Nunez’s return could provide additional depth to the Mets’ pitching staff as they navigate the final stretch of the season.

Despite the loss, Blackburn’s performance offers a glimmer of hope for the Mets, showing that he can be a reliable arm in their rotation. As the team continues to integrate new players and manage injuries, maintaining strong performances from pitchers like Blackburn will be crucial for their success in the remaining games of the season.