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New York Mets, Matt Harvey Encouraged by First Spring Outing

By Nick Ziegler

Mar 5, 2017; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Matt Harvey (left) talks with Mets catcher Rene Rivera (right) on the pitchers mound during a spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals at First Data Field. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 5, 2017; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Matt Harvey (left) talks with Mets catcher Rene Rivera (right) on the pitchers mound during a spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals at First Data Field. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Matt Harvey made his return to the mound for the New York Mets on Sunday afternoon. His results weren’t great, but it was a step forward.

After an injury-shortened 2016 season, Matt Harvey of the New York Mets was back on the mound for the first time since surgery.

In 2015, Harvey pitched very well after recovering from Tommy John surgery. He totaled a 13-8 record, 2.71 ERA, and 188 strikeouts. Despite the good 2015 season, Harvey really struggled in 2016. Last season, he totaled a 4-10 record and 4.86 ERA.

After the rough season, Harvey isn’t setting any expectations for the 2017 season. His main goal is to just be healthy. Here’s what Harvey said to Dan Martin of the New York Post.

"“Honestly, I don’t have any. I just want to make every start and I’m kind of looking start-to-start and day-[to]-day down here. I’m working on the process rather than expectations. My expectations are to be out there every fifth day.”"

Sunday was a big step in the right direction for Harvey. Since it was his first start since surgery, Terry Collins didn’t want him to do too much.

"“I told him, ‘Don’t be a hero today,’ ” Terry Collins said to Martin. “We’ve got a long way to go, we can move you back a couple.”“I think after you’ve had two surgeries, you want to do everything you can to stay on the field,” Harvey said to Martin. “I definitely realize that I need to put a lot more effort in before you go out there and just throw or before you run. You’ve got to take care of your body better. That’s definitely changed this year since last.”"

In the first inning, Harvey looked pretty sharp, as he was able to retire the side. However, the second inning did not go as well. After a leadoff double followed by a pitch that hit batter, Harvey allowed a three-run home run.

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Even though four runs were charged to Harvey, the Mets are encouraged by the outing. Harvey’s health is very important for the Mets this season, and he should be just fine as long as he is healthy.

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