{
  "id": 14131586,
  "title": "Blue Jays could be threat to poach Yankees 1.69 ERA pitcher during MLB offseason",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/blue-jays-could-be-threat-to-poach-yankees-1-69-era-pitcher-during",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-13T05:42:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/blue-jays-could-threat-poach-054239089.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Toronto Blue Jays may be interested in poaching Yankees' 1.69 ERA pitcher Paul Blackburn during the MLB offseason, according to reports. Blackburn, a 10-year veteran, was primarily used as a closer in 2025, appearing in 62 games and starting just two. He posted an impressive 1.69 ERA in 62 appearances, earning a reputation for his versatility and effectiveness. Despite a slightly inflated 3.75 FIP, Blackburn's performance was remarkable, especially considering his role change. The Blue Jays, known for their need for bullpen arms, could be attracted to Blackburn's reliability and consistency. If signed, the Blue Jays might attempt to convert him back into a starter, given their current lack of rotation depth. Blackburn's age and past struggles before his recent success could make him a more affordable option for the Blue Jays compared to other high-cost bullpen arms.",
  "summary": "Could the Blue Jays nab from a division rival?",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}