It’s already assumed that on opening day 2015, Mets ace Matt Harvey will make his triumphant return to the mound, squaring off against the Washington Nationals Stephen Strasburg. Coming off of Tommy John surgery, you have to wonder if this is the right way to handle the crown jewel of the rotation.
In 2012, Harvey threw 169.1 innings total, split between AAA and the major leagues. In 2013, that number increased to 178.1, all at the major league level. Obviously in 2014 he didn’t throw a single pitch and that sets up his return in 2015 at age 26.
Adam Rubin of ESPN raises a few valid scenarios for the Mets. One is that they delay the start to his season. Another is skipping starts throughout the year. Both would be done to help make sure Harvey is on the mound in September and dare I say, October.
It’s all about avoiding the shut down that caused Strasburg to miss the 2012 playoffs, after a great season. The Nationals were eliminated by the Cardinals as Strasburg watched from the bench.
Speaking to ESPNNewYork.com on Thursday, Sandy Alderon had this to say about the situation:
“We are still in the process of formulating a plan for Matt for 2015. Some of the issues you mention — limiting innings, delaying or skipping starts, ensuring Matt is available for the postseason — are ones we are still discussing. Once we have a plan, we would, of course, discuss it with Matt before moving forward. In the meantime, we expect that Matt will be ready for spring training and will prepare for the season in Port St. Lucie on a more or less normal basis.”
So it seems as if Harvey will be ready for the spring and then the process will dictate whether or not he’s the guy who gets the ball on opening day. Should Harvey start the year on the bench? Would you skip starts? Does shutting him down early actually make the most sense?
You tell us!
