Noah Syndergaard has a strained hamstring

Noah Syndergaard departed in the seventh inning on Saturday with a right hamstring strain. Syndergaard got through six innings having allowed two runs, but gave up a leadoff single in the seventh and fell off the mound awkwardly while facing his next batter. The inconsistent Met ace grabbed the back of his leg and immediately gestured to the dugout, and had a significant limp coming off the field.

The Mets plan to get a more detailed diagnosis postgame, but any injury classified as a strain is concerning, particularly given the team’s tendency to downplay the severity of injuries to the press. Hamstring strains can take weeks to heal and are often tricky, lingering issues. Any lengthy absence from Syndergaard would stress what is already a thing starting pitching depth chart, particularly after the decision to DFA Hector Santiago earlier in the day.

Walter Lockett is likely the next option on the depth chart for the Mets. Acquired in the Kevin Plawecki trade with the Indians in the offseason, the 25-year-old has underwhelmed in Triple-A this season, striking out a meager 3.28 batters per nine and running a FIP of 5.07. A more interesting option would be Anthony Kay, who has dominated Double-A this season but struggled in his lone start at Triple-A. Other options currently in the bullpen, such as Wilemr Font and Drew Gagnon, could also be considered.