The Mets announced that the right-hander Paul Blackburn was placed on the 15-day injured list (retroactive to August 24) due to a bruised right hand. Right-handed Huascar Brazoban was called up from Triple-A to take Blackburn’s place on the active roster.

Blackburn, acquired from the Athletics in a last-minute trade, has an inconsistent 5.18 ERA in five starts with New York as he has combined three good performances with two poor ones. His former Oakland team conceded six earned runs in four innings on Aug. 13, and Blackburn was charged with five ER in 2 1/3 innings against the Padres on Friday. The rough night was made worse when Blackburn was hit by a David Peralta Line drive that forced him out of the game.

On the positive side, a CT scan showed only a bruise and Blackburn initially hoped he could avoid the injury list altogether. However, a throwing exercise today resulted in “a lot of stiffness and pain”, Blackburn told Newsday’s Tim Healey and other reporters. The decision was subsequently made to place Blackburn on the injured list to give him time to fully recover, and the right-hander believes he can return after just the 15-day minimum requirements.

The Mets have a day off tomorrow, but then play nine games in as many days before taking their next break on September 5. At least one starter must be covered to account for Blackburn’s move in the rotation, and Thomas B. is probably the most logical candidate to be brought up from Triple-A for an appearance or two. Monday’s off day gives the Mets some time to plan how they will handle Blackburn’s absence and perhaps see if any further discomfort or swelling alters his schedule.