It’s only Spring Training, but it was great to finally see Matt Harvey back on the mound.
Matt Harvey was flawless in his return. Today marked the first time Harvey pitched against competition since Tommy John surgery, eighteen months ago. Harvey only pitched two innings, but retired all six of the batters he faced.
Harvey’s fastball reached 99 MPH and averaged speeds on 96-98 MPH. Harvey struck out the first batter he faced, Anthony Gose, while producing groundouts by the following two batters. An inning later, Harvey struck out two batters, the later with a fierce breaking ball.
Harvey threw only 25 pitches in his flawless return. Briefly speaking with Mets broadcasters later, Harvey said that he felt great initially, and during his second inning of work, “Became a little nervous.” Harvey also mentioned that after throwing his curveball for a 3-2 strikeout, “I was feeling it, so I had to drop it in.”
If Harvey had his way, I’m sure he would have preferred to pitch a couple more innings. But the goal is be ready for Opening Day in April and Harvey looked like he hasn’t missed a beat.
Harvey then handed the game off to the Mets to pitching prospect, Noah Syndergaard.
Welcome back, Matt.
