Harvey says Mets ready to ‘shock’
PORT ST. LUCIE — Matt Harvey followed a final spring-training tune-up with a bold prediction. “I think we are going to shock a lot of people [this season] and it’s going to be a lot of fun,” Harvey said as the Mets prepared to depart First Data Field on Monday for their flight to New York for Thursday’s season opener. “You see the lineup that we’re putting out there. Guys are going to get hot and we’re going to score a lot of runs and hopefully keep a lot of runs off the board and everybody is doing their job to stay healthy.”
Harvey, who pitched three innings in an intrasquad scrimmage, finished the exhibition season with a 4.50 ERA in five appearances. He is slated to pitch Monday against the Phillies in his season debut.
“I think [players] feel like they have something to prove, because things did not go their way last year,” manager Mickey Callaway said. “And when you get a team full of guys that are full of really good talent and they work hard and they feel like they have something to prove then you can go do something special and shock some people. I think that is where we are at.”
Michael Conforto will remain in extended spring training through Sunday, but said it’s unclear if he will follow that stint with a rehab assignment for Triple-A Las Vegas. Conforto will begin the season on the 10-day disabled list (backdated to his most recent Grapefruit League appearance) and would be eligible for removal on April 5. But the Mets have not indicated when Conforto will return.
“As bittersweet as it is to see the guys leaving and I am not going with them, it’s nice that I am almost there and I won’t be far behind them,” said Conforto, who is returning from left shoulder surgery. “I am just excited to get back to New York and have the opportunity to just stay here and work on some things and make sure I am really ready and start the season healthy.” The Mets claimed outfielder Bryce Brentz off waivers from the Pirates. A decision will be reached within the next few days on Brentz’s destination. Brentz does not have minor league options remaining, meaning he would have to clear waivers if the Mets attempt to place him at Triple-A Las Vegas.