PORT ST. LUCIE — The hits keep on coming.
Just as the Mets were awaiting word on Shaun Marcum’s status Tuesday, Jeremy Hefner left an exhibition game against the Cardinals after getting drilled in the pitching elbow by a Carlos Beltran one-hop comebacker in the fourth inning.
Hefner, who is slated to take Johan Santana’s rotation spot, was taken to a local hospital for X-rays. The blow potentially leaves the Mets with three healthy starting pitchers with less than a week until Opening Day.
Marcum was scheduled to be examined by a doctor on Tuesday – because of neck soreness – a day after he was forced to cut short a bullpen session, leaving him questionable to start the season with the team. He has been scratched from his scheduled exhibition start on Thursday.
“He’s supposed to pitch in seven days, so yeah, I’m a little concerned,” manager Terry Collins said.
Marcum had a cortisone shot last week because of an impingement in his shoulder, but called the procedure “precautionary.” The team is already without Santana to begin the season, as the lefty attempts to build up strength in his left shoulder.
Aaron Laffey could be recalled from minor league camp to fill a rotation spot. A team source indicated it was unlikely the Mets would try to sign Chris Young, who was released by the Nationals on Tuesday.