PORT ST. LUCIE — Paul Blackburn’s participation in normal physical activity late last season left him feeling as if his spine was getting crushed. Running, jumping, walking up and down stairs were activities that left him in severe discomfort. Migraines persisted, along with tingling sensations on the left side of his body.

Paul Blackburn’s Grapefruit League debut was brief, but it was certainly encouraging. Taking the mound for the first time since late August, the right-hander needed just seven pitches to retire the top of the Marlins' lineup in order en route to a perfect first inning to open Wednesday’s 4-1 loss.