The announcement was made official on August 21, when the Yankees announced that they had signed Paul Blackburn to a major league contract and added him to the active roster
Blackburn, who was released by the Mets after an inconsistent season, joins the team just before a key series against the Boston Red Sox. In a parallel move, the team sent pitcher Allan Winans to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Paul Blackburn: experience and opportunity
Paul Blackburn is a veteran of nine Major League Baseball seasons. He began his career with the Athletics and was acquired by the Mets at the 2024 trade deadline. In 2025, he posted a 6.85 ERA and a 1.65 WHIP in seven appearances, including four starts. He also recorded a save against the Rockies.
A strategic signing for the Yankees
The arrival of Blackburn seeks to strengthen a bullpen that has had its ups and downs. The recent performance of David Bednar, who allowed two runs in the ninth inning against the Rays, has raised concerns. Blackburn’s signing could offer depth and stability at key moments in the season.
Comparison with the Juan Soto case
Although the magnitude of the signing does not compare to that of Juan Soto, the pattern is similar: the Yankees take advantage of market opportunities to acquire talent that their rivals have let go. Soto came from the Padres in a deal that was also surprising in its timing and strategy.
Allan Winans, out due to performance
The move also comes in response to Allan Winans‘ poor performance, as in three games with the Yankees he had an ERA of 8.68 and a WHIP of 1.71. His time with the Braves in 2024 was even more complicated, with an ERA of 15.26. The team hopes that his time in the minor leagues will allow him to regain his form.
Yankees continue to adjust their roster
The signing of Paul Blackburn shows that the Yankees are willing to take calculated risks to strengthen their roster. Although he is not a star like Juan Soto, his experience could be valuable in the final stretch of the season.
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