In 2015, Matt Harvey was considered one of the best pitchers in the major leagues. Three years later, and Harvey is now reportedly on the trading block after his refusal to be designated for assignment by the New York Mets.
The Giants have reportedly discussed the possibility of ‘taking a flyer’ on the 29-year-old, according to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.
The #SFGiants have discussed the possibility of taking a flyer on Matt Harvey, sources say. They have the need, obviously, but how would he fit in the clubhouse? And more important, how much work does he need to get straightened out?
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) May 7, 2018
It’s been three seasons since Harvey has posted an ERA lower than 4.00. He was recently demoted to a bullpen role after sporting an 0–2 record and a 7.00 ERA after four starts to begin the 2018 season. In his first bullpen appearance of the season, Harvey allowed two hits and an earned run over two innings pitched. He was visibly frustrated after the game, refusing to talk to news media.
Harvey was an All-Star in 2013 and finished fourth in Cy Young voting while posting a 2.27 ERA. Harvey also won the Comeback Player of the Year award in 2015. Harvey was a first-round pick by the Mets in the 2010 MLB Draft.
Though it would be a shot in the dark, Harvey’s upside may be worth taking a risk on, considering the Giants are likely to be without starters Johnny Cueto and Madison Bumgarner until mid-to-late June.
