Paul Blackburn’s next Yankees deal can’t be based on ERA alone

Alexander Wilson of Empire Sports Media argues that the New York Yankees should re-sign pitcher Paul Blackburn in free agency, but must evaluate his overall profile rather than relying solely on his 1.59 ERA from 2026. Wilson cautions against offering a long-term contract based on an assumption that Blackburn will consistently maintain such a low ERA.

Wilson notes that Blackburn threw 85 innings across 62 appearances with a 1.08 WHIP, but experienced an increased walk rate and allowed 40.7% of inherited runners to score. While advocating for Blackburn's return on a short multiyear deal as a multi-out reliever, Wilson emphasizes that the Yankees should also target high-strikeout arms to address high-leverage situations.