Two-time reigning National League Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom was scratched from his scheduled start against the Phillies in Philadelphia on Friday night because of neck tightness.
The New York Mets ace (2-0, 2.45 ERA) said the tightness has lingered throughout the week but that tests revealed no structural damage.
Mets manager Luis Rojas said he doesn't think deGrom has a long-term injury, and deGrom, 32, anticipates making his next start.
"I debated on trying to go out there, and I think talking over it, it was, 'Let's make this hopefully a one-start thing and not really aggravate something, or feeling this, change my arm slot and hurt something else,''' deGrom said. "These were all discussions we had. So hopefully it's a one-start thing, but it's basically day by day right now. I love going out there and pitching and competing. And when you're not able to, it really does frustrate you.''
Right-hander Walker Lockett started in deGrom's place and gave up five runs and seven hits in six innings of the Mets' 6-5 loss.
In his most recent start, on Sunday, the right-handed deGrom dodged trouble for five innings against the Marlins, allowing two runs and seven hits and later saying he had an issue with the middle finger on his right hand during a 32-pitch second inning.
Robinson Cano returned from the injured list on Friday and was the designated hitter, batting fifth against the Phillies and going 2-for-5 with a solo homer.
Cano, who is hitting .410 with two home runs and nine RBIs in 12 games, had been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with a groin injury.
Mets left fielder Jeff McNeil wasn't in Friday's lineup, but he said he was feeling better a day after crashing into the left-field wall during a game against the Nationals. X-rays were negative Thursday, and he was diagnosed with a bone contusion in his knee.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.