Paul Blackburn emerges as middle reliever option for Yankees
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 5:00 PM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Paul Blackburn, a right-handed pitcher for the New York Yankees, has transitioned to a middle relief role this season. Since May, Blackburn has allowed five runs in his appearances, improving his effectiveness after being initially hired for rotation depth. His performance features a strong ability to avoid hard contact and generate groundballs, even as he struggles to secure strikeouts. As the Yankees continue to evaluate his role, Blackburn's adaptability may impact their bullpen strategy moving forward.
- •Blackburn has a 14th-ranked groundball percentage among relievers this season.
- •He has allowed five runs since May, with three coming in one game.
- •Blackburn's pitch selection includes a high usage of sinkers and cutters.
- •Yankees aim to evaluate Blackburn's sustainability as a reliever.
- •Blackburn is adjusting from a starting pitcher role to middle relief.
- 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Can Paul Blackburn be a real reliever?
"Paul Blackburn has been turned into a middle reliever option, but should he be?
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