New York Mets pitcher Matt Harvey will have his right elbow examined by Dr. James Andrews sometime this week, according to Mets manager Terry Collins. Collins said that Harvey, who has been sidelined with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament, is expected to meet with Andrews this week, but a date has not yet been agreed upon, according to The Associated Press.
Harvey, 24, is looking to avoid having to get reconstructive Tommy John surgery on his arm. If Andrews determines through his examination of Harvey that he needs the reconstructive surgery, Harvey may not pitch for the entire 2014 season as the general recovery time from Tommy John surgery is 12-18 months. Harvey was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a partial tear in his UCL on Aug. 27, but it was later announced that he would not pitch for the remainder of the season.
Even with next year in a cloud of doubt, Harvey has taken a positive attitude and even tweeted that he'll be back on the mound for the Mets by next April:
Thank you everyone for the kind words and support. I may be done this year, but I will be back next year for April 1.
— Matt Harvey (@MattHarvey33) August 27, 2013
Harvey was a bright spot in an otherwise dim season for New York (64-77) which enters play Monday 20.5 games behind the first place Atlanta Braves (85-57) in the National League East and trails the Cincinnati Reds (82-62) for the NL wildcard by 16.5 games.
Harvey was enjoying a breakout season in his first full year in the Major Leagues, and started for the NL All-Star team at the Mets' home of Citi Field back in July. Harvey appeared in 26 games this season, posting a 9-5 overall record to go along with a 2.27 ERA and .931 WHIP, placing him in the conversation with Clayton Kershaw for Cy Young Award voting before the injury. Harvey has also fanned 191 batters this season.
Harvey's injury came as a shock and disappointment as it cut short what was a very promising season. Harvey discussed the injury last month.
Harvey's future remains uncertain, but his visit with Dr. Andrews will provide a better picture for what the Mets can expect in 2014. A lot of the Mets future plans are centered around Harvey, and the Mets are hopeful Andrews' examination of the pitcher won't keep their new ace out of their future plans for 2014 and possibly beyond.
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