Yankees' Paul Blackburn Delivers Strong Spring Outing

Right-hander throws four shutout innings in exhibition win over Phillies

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Paul Blackburn, a right-handed pitcher for the New York Yankees, had a strong four-inning outing in the team's 4-2 exhibition win over the Philadelphia Phillies on March 10, 2026. Blackburn, who struggled in 2025 between the Yankees and Mets, said he is in a better physical condition this spring training.

Why it matters

Blackburn's performance is an encouraging sign for the Yankees as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. The team is hoping Blackburn can solidify his spot in the starting rotation and provide stability to the pitching staff.

The details

Blackburn threw four shutout innings against the Phillies, showcasing improved velocity and command compared to last season. Meanwhile, fellow Yankees pitcher Luis Gil saw his fastball velocity tick up from his previous spring outings, averaging 95.5 mph after sitting at 95.3 mph in 2025. Additionally, 25-year-old outfielder Garrett Martin, who finished last season at Double-A, hit a 110 mph single in the top of the ninth inning.

  • On March 10, 2026, Blackburn threw four shutout innings in the Yankees' exhibition game against the Phillies.

The players

Paul Blackburn

A right-handed pitcher for the New York Yankees who is looking to bounce back after a rough 2025 season split between the Yankees and Mets.

Luis Gil

A Yankees pitcher whose fastball velocity ticked up in his latest spring training outing, averaging 95.5 mph after sitting at 95.3 mph in 2025.

Garrett Martin

A 25-year-old outfielder who finished last season at Double-A Somerset and hit a 110 mph single in the top of the ninth inning of the Yankees' exhibition game against the Phillies.

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What they’re saying

“You feel that you keep getting better and stronger and sharper,”

— Luis Gil (New York Post)

The takeaway

Blackburn's strong spring outing and Gil's improved velocity are positive signs for the Yankees as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season. The team is hoping these pitchers can provide stability and depth to the starting rotation.