Jacob deGrom will return to the rotation on Friday when the New York Mets open up a three game series against the Washington Nationals. Originally schedule to pitch tonight against the Miami Marlins, the Mets opted to give him and additional four days of rest after back to back rough outings.
In his last two starts, deGrom has given up 13 earned runs on 25 hits including three home runs in 9.2 innings of work. In his previous nine starts, he was 4-1 with a 1.29 ERA, .217 BAA and 58 strikeouts in 60.1 innings pitched.
Manager Terry Collins explained that deGrom has always responded with a strong effort whenever he’s pitched on extra rest. “When he’s had time off, he’s bounced back and been dominant.”
So here’s how things shape up for the rest of the week. Rookie right-hander Seth Lugo will start for the Mets on Tuesday, followed by the veteran Bartolo Colon on Wednesday. Then left-hander Steven Matz will close out the series against the Marlins on Thursday, when he will return from the disabled list.
Tue. RHP Tom Koehler (9-9, 3.85) vs. RHP Seth Lugo (1-2, 2.51)
Wed. RHP David Phelps (7-6, 2.52) vs. RHP Bartolo Colon (12-7, 3.44)
Thurs. RHP Jose Urena (2-5, 5.83) vs. LHP Steven Matz (9-8, 3.40)
With deGrom getting the start on Friday, Noah Syndergaard will start the second game against the Nats on Saturday, giving him an extra day of rest, and then Lugo will pitch the series finale on Sunday.
