On October 22nd, 2013, Matt Harvey underwent a surgery that is all to common for pitchers, Tommy John. Recovery for this procedure is typically around 12 months with most requiring more time to feel 100%. If Harvey had his way, he would have been back pitching for the Mets in 2014 in almost meaningless games. However Sandy Alderson and the rest of the front office staff stuck to their guns and were truly looking out for both the Mets and Harvey's future's. They held him back, knowing that he could be of more use in 2015 at 100% than in 2014 where he could have been not ready and possibly aggravate the injury further. Now after a 5 starts in spring training Harvey looks like he hasn't missed a beat. 17K's in 18 innings, a 1.45 ERA, .80 WHIP and the one stat that really jumps out at me is only 1 walk. Many people believe the last thing to come around for a pitcher after Tommy John is the control of their pitches and having only 1 walk in 18 innings shows me that he is comfortable on the mound and is not trying to adjust his mechanics to avoid a painfully delivery.
The Mets should be applauded and copied in how they handled this situation. Unlike a division rival who brought one of their young guns back to the big leagues before a full year off and then had to shut him down during a pennant race and playoffs a couple years back. Yes I'm talking about you Washington Nationals. In these days of wanting to protect young assets, especially young arms, the Mets took a line that many organizations simply have a tough time doing. Having patience, not giving in to player demands and setting themselves up to be better team down the road. Though the Mets will likely miss the playoffs in 2015, their future is filled with bright lights thanks in part to the Dark Knight of Gotham's healthy return.
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