The Mets designated Paul Blackburn for assignment after Friday’s 11-9 loss to the Mariners, according to the team website, to open a roster spot for pitcher Nolan McLean, who will make his first major league start Saturday. 

Blackburn, who was acquired before the 2024 trade deadline from the A’s, pitched five innings of one-run ball out of the bullpen Wednesday night against the Braves.

The right-hander did not pitch until June 2 this season after he dealt with right knee inflammation at the end of spring training that forced him to go on the injured list.

When he did return this year, he largely struggled with a 6.85 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 23 2/3 innings.

With Andrew Battifarano