New York Mets pitcher Paul Blackburn had to leave Friday night’s game against the San Diego Padres in the third inning after a line drive from David Peralta struck his right hand.
The Mets reported that Blackburn’s hand was bruised and that he would need further tests on Saturday.
Blackburn tried to protect his face with his arm when the ball hit him and bounced to second baseman Jose Iglesias, who then threw out Peralta.
Blackburn was seen sitting on the ground and pointing to his right hand when catcher Francisco Alvarez came over to check on him. The training staff attended to him, and he was replaced by Ryne Stanek with the Padres leading 4-0.
Blackburn had a 5-3 record and a 4.19 ERA before this game.
