"We got the win" - Mets' Paul Blackburn speaks about first victory for New York team, lauds 'unbelievable' work by Francisco Alvarez

Paul Blackburn was acquired by the New York Mets at the trade deadline and he immediately left a mark for his new team. Blackburn impressed in his debut game for the club, earning a win against the LA Angels on Friday.

Blackburn pitched six innings, giving up only one run on six hits and two walks while striking out six. With the 5-1 win, the New York Mets continued their hot run, having gone 7-3 in their last 10 matches. After the game, Blackburn said he enjoyed his first start and lauded Francisco Alvarez for his defensive work behind the plate.

"I think, well, I mean, we got the win. That's all I'm here for, really. That's all I care about. Just a W at the end of the day. You know, as far as how Alvey and I went and kind of worked together, I mean, it was unbelievable. It couldn't have been better," Blackburn said.

"Just the preparation on his end, the constant communication between innings with him. It was fun to watch. I loved it. I love throwing to him. First time out, it couldn't have gone better with us."

Paul Blackburn was excited upon his trade to Mets

A week ago, Paul Blackburn was pitching for the Oakland Athletics against the same team, the Angels. And now he is in the Mets uniform. That's how fast things happen at the MLB Trade Deadline.

The Mets gave up No. 25 pitching prospect Kade Morris for Blackburn. With this, they filled a hole left by Kodai Senga, who is ruled out for the season.

Upon learning his new destination, Blackburn expressed excitement on his social media:

“I couldn’t be more excited for this next chapter in my career,” he said on Instagram. “Having the opportunity to be a part of something special and contribute in a pennant race is what every player dreams of. I look forward to meeting and getting to know everyone in Queens!”

The Mets organization is also happy with this acquisition with team president David Stearns heaping praise for the pitcher.

“We think he’s going to fit into our rotation nicely,” Stearns said at the deadline. “This has been an extremely consistent pitcher throughout his big-league career, he fills the strike zone well, and has kind of a kitchen sink approach to what he does.”

Entering Friday night's game, Paul Blackburn was 4-2, posting an ERA of 4.41 with a 1.16 WHIP.