Johan Santana‘s struggles have gotten worse as this season has progressed, and they won’t be getting better any time soon.

According to ESPN reporter Adam Rubin, Santana will miss his upcoming start against Colorado:

This news comes on the heels of Monday night’s report from New York Times reporter Hunter Atkins. Atkins reported that “he has experienced stiffness in his back that apparently worsened after he threw a bullpen session Monday.”

As Atkins also mentions, Santana was already being monitored. He hasn’t cleared the 200-inning mark since 2008 and missed the entire 2011 season.

Santana started the season by going 6-4 with a 2.76 ERA. Since then he’s lost his last five starts. His ERA currently stands at 4.85, and he hasn’t thrown more than five innings in a game since June 30.

This is a disappointing injury for a pitcher who has had his fair share of bad luck. This injury could prompt Santana being shut down for the year, adding another hurdle in New York’s attempt to salvage what was once a promising season.

Mejia has a 2.75 ERA in seven Triple-A starts. It’s unclear how long the Mets will need him, but Santana’s injury history could put him on the mend for an extended period of time.

Stay tuned as more information surfaces regarding Santana’s injury and how long you can expect him to be on the shelf.

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