Johan Santana: Latest on Mets Star's Back Injury

Update: Wednesday, August 22 at 4:27 p.m. ET by Ian Hanford

ESPN's Adam Rubin provided the baseball world with an update concerning the Mets' plans for Santana on Wednesday:

"

Santana prescribed rest and placed on DL. Being shut down for season.

— Adam Rubin (@AdamRubinESPN) August 22, 2012"

This shouldn't be terribly surprising, and it's the right move for the Mets. Santana's injury issues are well-documented, and there is no reason to push things at this point in the season.

For Santana, it appears he will have to wait until next year for another shot to find his "old" self again.

Stay tuned for any more information regarding the Mets' oft-injured southpaw.

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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.