REPORT: Potential NY Mets roster decision sparks reactions that got fans buzzing

The New York Mets began spring training with a heated battle for the last two spots in their starting rotation. Following early injuries to Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas, attention turned to depth options Paul Blackburn, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill.

At first, Blackburn and Canning seemed to be the favorites, while Megill, struggling with consistency at the major league level and the only one with a minor league option, appeared headed for the bullpen or Triple-A. But as spring training went on, the situation changed unexpectedly.

Tylor Megill’s spring surge, Paul Blackburn’s shifting role

As spring training neared its end, Paul Blackburn had the poorest performance among the three candidates for the starting rotation. After five starts, he had allowed nearly a run per inning, with a troubling 1.5 K/BB ratio. In contrast, Griffin Canning impressed with his swing-and-miss stuff, giving up just one run, striking out 1.6 batters per inning, and displaying excellent control.

The competition for the final rotation spot now appears to be between Blackburn and Tylor Megill. However, recent roster projections indicate that Megill has pulled ahead. His spring performance has been outstanding, with a strikeout rate above one per inning and an impressive 6.5 K/BB ratio. His control has been exceptional, showcasing the swing-and-miss ability that had previously been missing.

Carlos Mendoza says the Mets are considering carrying Tylor Megill, Griffin Canning, and Paul Blackburn on the roster while putting two in the rotation and one in the bullpen

He explains how the team is thinking about the decision: pic.twitter.com/ASMtoCSRAd

— SNY (@SNYtv) March 17, 2025

It seems the Mets are considering moving Blackburn to the bullpen as a long relief option, signaling their lack of confidence in his ability to consistently start. This is noteworthy because Megill still has minor league options, which would give the team the flexibility to send him to Triple-A while keeping Blackburn in the rotation. However, the Mets’ decision not to take this route suggests that they have serious reservations about Blackburn’s starter potential.

By prioritizing Megill, despite his past inconsistencies and the availability of minor league options, the Mets are clearly favoring the pitcher who has shown better results and potential during spring training. Ultimately, putting Canning and Megill in the starting rotation based on their performance looks like the best choice for the team heading into opening day.