Mets' Montas, Blackburn Nearing MLB Returns After Rehab Outings

The New York Mets are preparing to reintegrate two pitchers recovering from injuries into their major league roster. Paul Blackburn, recovering from right knee inflammation, is set to make one more rehab start with Triple-A Syracuse before potentially debuting for the Mets against the Dodgers, with strong recent performances including a seven-scoreless-inning outing. Frankie Montas, sidelined with a right lat strain sustained during spring training, began a rehab assignment with High-A Brooklyn, allowing two runs over 1 1/3 innings in his first outing. Montas, who has been on the 60-day injured list and has yet to debut for the Mets since signing a two-year contract, is gradually working back to full strength. The Mets face a demanding schedule starting May 30, which may influence Blackburn's role in the rotation or as long relief. Both pitchers' returns mark significant steps forward for the Mets' pitching depth as they manage injury recoveries.