Mets trade Harvey to Reds

CINCINNATI (AP) — The New York Mets are getting something in return for Matt Harvey.

The Cincinnati Reds acquired the former ace for catcher Devin Mesoraco on Tuesday, shortly before the teams started their game at Great American Ball Park.

The deal provided a fresh start for two former All-Stars whose careers have been sidetracked by injuries.

Mesoraco merely had to walk to the visiting clubhouse. He originally was in Cincinnati's starting lineup, but was eligible to play right away for the Mets. Third baseman Todd Frazier was put on the 10-day disabled list with a strained left hamstring, creating a spot for Mesoraco.

Harvey is expected to join the Reds in Los Angeles for the start of a series against the Dodgers on Thursday.

The Reds included $5,788,978 as part of the trade, which made the deal come out nearly even financially. Harvey is making $5,625,000 on a one-year contract. Mesoraco gets $13 million in the final season on a four-year, $28 million deal.

The 29-year-old Harvey was designated for assignment on Saturday, giving the Mets seven days to trade or release him when he refused a demotion to the minors. Harvey was 0-2 with a 7.00 ERA this season.

Mesoraco is batting .220 in 18 games with one homer and three RBIs.