Harvey throws to batters for 1st time since elbow surgery

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) Matt Harvey drew an ovation from the crowd of 100-150 fans and high-fives from teammates after stepping off the mound Friday.

The New York Mets ace threw 43 pitches to David Wright, Michael Cuddyer, Curtis Granderson and Daniel Murphy in his first time facing hitters since elbow-ligament replacement surgery on Oct. 22, 2013. The batters tracked the pitches but didn't swing.

Harvey, who last pitched in a major league game on Aug. 24, 2013, primarily threw fastballs but mixed in all of his pitches. Catcher Travis d'Arnaud and manager Terry Collins sounded impressed by Harvey's accuracy and command.