Jacob deGrom scratched from tonight’s start with stiff neck

The Mets have scratched Jacob deGrom from tonight’s start due to a stiff neck. In his place, Walker Lockett will get the nod to kick off the three-game series against the Phillies.

deGrom addressed the media this afternoon to share the news. The scratch has nothing to do with the “hot spot” that bothered deGrom during his Sunday start against the Marlins, where he pitched five innings of two-run ball in the win. According to deGrom, he experienced neck tightness after his last start, which didn’t go away as the week progressed. He mentioned to Jeremy Hefner that he could potentially start tonight, but did not want to put the team at a disadvantage should it tighten up over the course of the night.

No further details were provided on how much time the 32-year-old is expected to miss, but Luis Rojas said the team is not concerned about the injury from a long-term standpoint. Jake was asked about the “hot spot” on his finger, and noted that it has felt better in recent days, which could be a result of throwing less due to the stiff neck.

Lockett, who was recalled earlier this week and has yet to pitch this season, will get his first start of the season. Lockett made nine appearances for the Mets last year, including four starts, and posted an 8.34 ERA, a 6.17 FIP, and a 1.72 WHIP with 16 strikeouts in 22.2 innings.