Max Scherzer Scratched From Tuesday Start Against Reds

The Mets have scratched Max Scherzer from his start Tuesday night against the Reds in Cincinnati because of neck spasms. Scherzer acknowledged Monday that he’s also still dealing with discomfort in his right scapula near his shoulder blade. Scherzer showed diminished velocity and spin rates in his most recent start against the Tigers last week. In that start, Scherzer allowed six runs in only 3 1/3 innings.

The 38-year-old has struggled in five starts this year with a 5.56 ERA and six home runs allowed in 22 2/3 innings.

Left-hander David Peterson will make the start in Scherzer’s place. Peterson was originally scheduled to start for Triple-A Syracuse on Tuesday. Peterson struggled to the tune of a 7.34 ERA in six starts to being the season for the Mets before his recent demotion to Syracuse. Peterson then struggled in his first Syraucse start, giving up four runs in five innings.

Jimmy Yacabonis has been placed on the injured list with a left quad sprain to make room for Peterson on the active roster.