New York Mets starter Paul Blackburn left the game against the San Diego Padres after a line drive hit his right hand

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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.

Paul Blackburn pitches in the 1st inning

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.

Michael Smith

Michael Smith is a seasoned sports journalist with a focus on college and high school sports. He has been with the Sports Business Journal since 2006, following an 18-year tenure with daily newspapers, including coverage of University of Kentucky basketball for the Louisville Courier-Journal.