TRENTON – Those in attendance at Friday’s game between the Thunder and the Binghamton Mets will witness something that’s never happened at Waterfront Park – Kei Igawa will make his first home start in Double-A.

The left-hander on whom the Yankees invested $48 million five seasons ago skipped Double-A on his initial ascent through the minors. Now, in the final year of his deal, the time has come for him to make a start in Trenton.

That chance will come because Steve Garrison – a Hun School alumnus – has gone back to Tampa to rehab his strained left groin. That means there’s a spot in the rotation open for the foreseeable future.

“He pitched well the other day,” manager Tony Franklin said, referring to his start on Sunday in the team’s finale with the Akron Aeros. “(He was) a little shaky in the first two innings, but he settled down and gave the team a chance to win. That’s the only thing we can ask for from him.”

If it’s any indication as to how long the team expects Garrison to be away, reliever Brian Anderson – also on the disabled list – has moved into what was Garrison’s locker.

NOTES: Dellin Betances, yesterday’s starter, was expected to throw either five innings or 100 pitches, whichever came first. … Corban Joseph’s hitting streak ended on Saturday at 17 games. He started another one quickly, however, collecting three hits on Sunday. … Ray Kruml and Austin Krum have combined to steal 25 bases in as many tries.