Washington (AP) — Mat Latos was removed from his first start with the Washington Nationals on Monday when he appeared to injure his right leg with one out in the fifth inning.

The Nationals were leading the New York Mets 8-1 when Latos, 28, was examined on the mound by trainer Paul Lessard before leaving the game.

Latos signed a minor league deal with Washington in June after the Chicago White Sox released him. The right-hander was making his first big league start since June 7.

Latos threw 4 1/3 innings and allowed three hits and one run with three walks and four strikeouts. He also hit a home run to lead off the second inning.

Injuries to Stephen Strasburg and Joe Ross, plus inconsistency from prospects Reynaldo Lopez and Lucas Giolito, opened the door for Latos to start Monday.