#Michael Wacha shoulder issue leaves another hole in Mets rotation

As the Mets await Marcus Stroman’s potential return from the injured list in the near future, another starting pitcher is on the sideline.

Michael Wacha was placed on the IL with right shoulder inflammation before Sunday’s game against the Marlins, leaving the Mets with half the starting pitchers they had in their spring training rotation mix.

Since then, Noah Syndergaard (torn ulnar collateral ligament), Stroman (left calf tear) and Wacha have been injured.

Wacha allowed four runs over five innings in a loss to the Marlins on Friday. The right-hander is 1-2 with a 6.43 ERA after arriving in the offseason on an incentive-laden, one-year contract. Wacha had a history of shoulder issues with the Cardinals.

“Throughout [Friday’s] outing he felt something, but was able to keep going,” manager Luis Rojas said. “After the game he talked to the staff and let them know and then we found out about it.”

Rojas ruled out the possibility of Stroman returning to take Wacha’s spot in the rotation. Stroman is expected to pitch a simulated game on Tuesday to show his calf is recovered and has the mobility to field his position.

The Mets might go with a bullpen game on Wednesday in Wacha’s spot, according to Rojas. Other possibilities could include Franklyn Kilome and Walker Lockett.