New York Mets ace Matt Harvey meets with Dr. Andrews, will attempt to avoid Tommy John surgery

August 27, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets injured pitcher Matt Harvey stands in the dugout during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: John Munson/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports /

Yesterday, New York Mets ace Matt Harvey met with famed orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews in hopes of receiving news that would allow him to avoid the dreaded Tommy John operation.

He received it.

Sort of.

While Andrews did inform Harvey that surgery can’t be completely ruled out, he along with the Mets decided that rehab would be the best option for now.

"Mets star right-hander Matt Harvey is expected to try to avoid Tommy John elbow surgery after seeing noted sports doctor James Andrews on Monday.The diagnosis apparently was positive enough that Harvey is expected to try rehab for now, then begin a throwing program in 1-2 months. Surgery remains a possibility, depending on how the rehab and throwing go.Harvey was diagnosed by Mets doctors as having a partial tear of his right ulnar collateral ligament a few weeks ago. That does not appear to be in dispute, but while such a tear usually requires surgery, some pitchers have been able to pitch through such an injury.No details of Andrews’ examination are known."

Undergoing Tommy John surgery would not allow Harvey to return until the 2015 season, a devastating blow to both the player and franchise.

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay had a similar injury when he was a member of the Toronto Blue Jays and decided against surgery, opting for rehab and hasn’t ever looked back. Hopefully the same fate awaits Harvey and the Mets.

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