Did Harvey pass his audition?
Matt Harvey auditioned for a role in the Mets starting rotation tonight as he took the mound against the Toledo Mud Hens in Buffalo. Harvey threw 100 pitches in 6 2/3 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 3 hits, walked 4 and struck out 4. One of the runs scored when reliever Justin Hampson allowed an inherited runner to cross the plate on a single.
Sandy Alderson and J.P. Ricciardi were on hand to evaluate Harvey first hand. Obviously, the Mets’ front office is seriously considering Harvey to replace the injured Dillon Gee in the major league rotation.
Harvey was effectively wild at times, throwing only 58% of his pitches for strikes. That kind of ball to strike ratio will eventually catch up with him at the major league level. His command has been improving of late, so one hopes that this is an aberration.
But he pitched well enough tonight to earn a shot at the major league level. Of course, the experienced eyes of Alderson and Ricciardi will decide, but don’t be surprised if he’s called up soon and on the mound this weekend.
Meanwhile, Jason Bay went 0 for 2 with 2 walks. Mets manager Terry Collins has indicated that Bay will return to the big club on Tuesday. Also, Jenrry Mejia pitched 2 innings in relief, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits.