What a long, strange trip it has been for New York Mets right-hander Matt Harvey.
On Thursday at Nationals Park, he made his first start since 2013 due to Tommy John surgery in his right elbow. He looked like the pitcher who was dominating the majors prior to going under the knife.
“He is such an amazing guy to be around,” said Mets manager Terry Collins. “He was ready a long time ago for tonight. He was pretty geeked-up a month ago. I really enjoy the guy; he is fun to watch. He is going to change the dynamics of what our club is about. This guy is such a competitor.”
Harvey’s fastball reached at least 97 mph and he did not allow a run in six innings while fanning nine in the Mets’ 6-3 win over the Washington Nationals. He threw 91 pitches in the win.
“The long anticipation was settling in,” Harvey said. “It was good to get out there.”
Harvey, who entered the game with a lifetime ERA of 2.39, is scheduled to start again Tuesday at Citi Field, a day after the Mets’ home opener.