After much internal debate, Mets righthander Matt Harvey will make his next start, in hopes that he can pull himself out of the worst tailspin of his career. He will pitch at some point during the Nationals series next week, though the day has yet to be determined.
“In this particular case, we think he needs to get back on the horse as fast as he can,” Mets manager Terry Collins said.
Harvey’s turn falls on Tuesday. But he could also be bumped back to Wednesday. At one point, the Mets even batted around sending Harvey back out on short rest since he only threw 61 pitches against the Nationals during his meltdown on Thursday.
The Mets considered various options including skipping Harvey’s next turn or placing him on the disabled list. Every option focused on clearing the pitcher’s mind.
But the Mets — content that he’s healthy — ultimately decided to let the struggling righthander work through what has mushroomed into a crisis of confidence.
But after allowing nine runs (six earned) in just 2 2⁄3 innings on Thursday — an effort that got him booed off the mound — Harvey arrived at Citi Field and insisted that he remain in the rotation despite an ERA that has ballooned to 5.77.
To Harvey, the only way to get back on track is to keep pitching, a sentiment that brought Collins a measure of relief.
Said Collins: “I was glad to hear that.”
Wright not in lineup
David Wright was out of the starting lineup on Friday. It was a planned test day. Collins said he may play the Mets captain in more day games, in hopes that the warmer weather puts less strain on his back.
..... - Newsday