Mets manager Terry Collins said Friday that Johan Santana (shoulder) is behind in his long-toss program.

Collins also said that Santana will stay in Florida when the rest of the team heads north for the start of the season. "He's not where he needs to be in his long-toss program," said Collins. "Even if it's next week, he's not going to open with us. He's going to have to get himself ready. And that's going to certainly determine on a daily basis where he's at. But we'll be gone. I'll have to monitor it by the phone." Santana hasn't thrown off a mound since March 6 due to a lack of shoulder strength and isn't anywhere close to game-ready. Jeremy Hefner is expected to take his spot in the rotation.

Mets manager Terry Collins said Sunday that he didn't expect Johan Santana (shoulder) to pitch in a game this week.

Santana has resumed mound work, but he's not quite ready for game action. Although him being ready for Opening Day hasn't officially been ruled out, it's highly unlikely that he'll make the start.

Johan Santana (shoulder) could be ready to throw a bullpen session this weekend.

Santana was reportedly upset about how the Mets characterized his readiness to pitch upon reporting to spring training, but he said Wednesday that both sides are now on the "same page." The plan calls for him to take tomorrow off before a decision is made about a possible bullpen session. While the drama appears to be over, Santana is expected to begin the season on the disabled list.