Matt Harvey still doesn’t get it, and it is sad and disappointing.
Noah Syndergaard, four years Harvey’s junior already seems to get it.
The way in which Syndergaard had passed Harvey in terms of popularity and performance prior to his injury was the perfect foil in terms of character.
Then Syndergaard had his “Harvey-esque” moment, famously refusing an MRI exam, then angrily snapping at the Mets head of media relations, and finally landing on the DL after injuring his lat muscle in his very next start.
Now, the latest drama involving Matt Harvey revolves around a three-game suspension for a “violation of team rules” according to the Mets’ official statement, which came just hours before Harvey was supposed to take the mound against the Marlins.
Harvey was sent home and the Mets appeared listless after turning to spot starter Adam Wilk in a rather matter-of-fact loss to close out the series.
“These guys have been playing very, very well and then all of the sudden there’s something that’s thrown in the mix that no one in that room has any control over,” manager Terry Collins said. “Yeah, it takes a little steam away.”
What is the biggest difference between Matt Harvey and Noah Syndergaard, not including their hairstyles? It might be the way they handle adversity.
Matt Harvey is struggling in his return from thoracic surgery and boasted about how “great” he felt after surrendering six runs to the Braves in his last start. Then four days later he is “violating team rules.”
What were those violations? Take your pick as they could theoretically include missing a workout to watch the Rangers’ playoff game, playing 18 holes of golf and getting a migraine, being hungover, or being a “no-show-no-call” to work. All indications are that he wasn’t at the ballpark at all on Saturday; the day before his start.
His actions demonstrate that Harvey seems to value himself above the team. He is reportedly filing a grievance with the team in response to the suspension without pay, a sign he is not willing to accept responsibility for his actions.
Time will tell if Noah Syndergaard will follow the route that Matt Harvey has apparently taken, or if he will learn from his own mistakes. However, signs point to the younger Syndergaard knowing where he went wrong with his controversies.
Not only did Syndergaard apologize to the team and the fans for “letting them down” with a poignant note he posted on social media, but he also privately reached out to Jay Horwitz and apologized for disrespecting him.
Using the words “respect for the game” and stating that he is “sorry he cannot be on the field” speaks volumes.
It is the lack of respect for the game, and lack of remorse (challenging this suspension) where Matt Harvey falls short; time and time again.
