The New York Mets face a pitching crisis as both starter Paul Blackburn and reliever Dedniel Núñez join the injured list. Núñez's elbow injury may require a second Tommy John surgery, while Blackburn is sidelined with a shoulder issue. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed cautious optimism about Blackburn's recovery, yet the team’s rotation is severely depleted, with five of their top eight starters currently out.

As the Mets grapple with their options for the upcoming Subway Series against the Yankees, they are considering various strategies to fill the gaps in their rotation. Frankie Montas is set to start on Saturday, with uncertain plans for the other two games. The organization is also keeping an eye on the progress of Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga, both of whom might return just before the All-Star break, providing some much-needed relief.

The New York Mets have placed Kodai Senga on the 15-day injured list following a right hamstring strain sustained while covering first base. The severity of the injury is still unclear as the team awaits MRI results, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery. In his absence, Paul Blackburn will fill his rotation spot, having previously excelled in a start against the Dodgers. Max Kranick has been called up from Triple-A to bolster the roster.

Last season, Senga missed significant time due to shoulder and calf injuries, which complicated his rehab process. Mets president David Stearns expressed confidence in the team's improved communication and medical strategies this year, believing they can effectively manage Senga's recovery. The Mets are optimistic about their depth, with Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea nearing returns, suggesting they can withstand Senga's absence while maintaining their solid pitching performance.

In an exhilarating matchup, Paul Blackburn made a remarkable return to the mound, pitching brilliantly for the New York Mets in a 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. After a lengthy absence of over nine months, Blackburn showed no signs of rust, throwing 77 pitches, with 49 strikes, allowing just three hits and one walk. He effectively utilized his cutter against a potent Dodgers lineup, striking out Shohei Ohtani twice and securing a key groundout in a tense fifth inning.

Support from his teammates was evident, with Francisco Lindor showcasing his own prowess by homering, extending the Mets' streak to 27 consecutive wins when he goes yard. Lindor expressed his admiration for Blackburn's hard work and execution, emphasizing the significance of this victory not only for Blackburn but also for the team's morale. With other starters like Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas nearing their return, the Mets' pitching rotation is on the rise—a promising sign for the franchise as they look to maintain momentum in the postseason chase.

The New York Mets secured a thrilling 4-3 victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers in 10 innings, improving their record to 38-22. This win marks their fourth consecutive victory, solidifying their lead in the National League East, 1.5 games ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies. The game featured a dramatic ninth inning where Dodgers' star Shohei Ohtani tied the game with a clutch hit. However, the Mets quickly responded in the 10th, scoring two runs to seal their victory.

A highlight of the game was the impressive return of right-hander Paul Blackburn, who threw five scoreless innings in his season debut after a lengthy injury absence. Blackburn's performance included three strikeouts and only one walk, showcasing his potential to contribute significantly to the Mets' pitching rotation as the season progresses. The Mets' bullpen, however, struggled to maintain the lead he provided, underscoring an area that needs improvement as they head into the summer months.