It’s the kind of performance that can cloud a decision-maker’s judgment. The New York Mets just watched a veteran right-hander work 5.2 steady innings in the minors, marking his fourth solid rehab outing since returning from the injured list. In a season where most starters not named David Peterson have struggled to get deep into games, it’s easy to see the appeal. But easy isn’t always the right kind of answer.
Veteran arms offer comfort, like a familiar old playlist, but they rarely surprise you with a chart-topping hit. We already know the track list here. Paul Blackburn’s previous time with the Mets was a rough mix of struggles and limited impact.