New York Mets right-hander John Maine left Thursday night's game against the Washington Nationals after throwing just five pitches.

Mets spokesman Jay Horwitz said Maine was removed for "precautionary reasons."

Pitching coach Dan Warthen noticed that Maine's "velocity was down" while he warming up in the bullpen, Horwitz said.

During Morgan's at-bat, Warthen said that "his delivery wasn't his normal delivery," Horwitz said.

Maine, who has a history of problems with his right shoulder, will be examined by a doctor on Friday.

After Maine walked leadoff batter Nyjer Morgan, manager Jerry Manuel and Warthen went out to the mound. After a brief conversation with the pitcher, Manuel removed him.

Maine could be seen questioning Manuel in the dugout afterward.

Maine came in with a 1-3 record and a 6.13 ERA. He's won just once in nine starts this season.

He was replaced by Raul Valdes, who was already warming up in the bullpen as Maine pitched to Morgan.