Jacob DeGrom Scratched With Stiff Neck, Walker Lockett to Start Instead

Update (3:59 p.m.):

Jacob deGrom is dealing with a stiff neck and will not pitch on Friday, Jon Heyman reports.

deGrom felt discomfort in his neck after his start against the Marlins on Sunday. It lingered throughout the week and bothered him during a bullpen session on Thursday.

An MRI did not reveal any structural issues, deGrom said. He could have pitched on turn but decided not to push it.

Walker Lockett will make his 2020 debut and start in deGrom’s place. Lockett had been on the injured list with a back stiffness since Opening Day.

In nine appearances (four starts) in 2019, he recorded an 8.34 ERA with 16 strikeouts over 22.2 innings.

Original Post:

According to sources, Mets ace Jacob deGrom has been scratched from his start tonight against the Phillies.

Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports that deGrom will talk to reporters at 3:45 p.m. today.

No word yet on why or who will replace him.

We will update when more details are available.