Report: Mets fear Harvey could have nerve condition

As the New York Mets prepare for a four-game showdown with the first-place Washington Nationals, the health of right-hander Matt Harvey remains an increasing concern.

Less than 24 hours after being placed on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder discomfort, Harvey was scheduled to undergo further examination Thursday in St. Louis with Dr. Robert Thompson, who specializes in thoracic outlet syndrome.

Sources tell David Lennon of Newsday there's "suspicion" that Harvey could have the complicated disorder which, according to the Mayo Clinic, involves the compression of nerves between the ribs and collarbone and can cause possible numbness in the fingers.

In some cases, thoracic outlet syndrome requires surgery, which is what ended Phil Hughes' season last week, and nearly derailed Chris Young's career three years ago when he was operated on by Thompson. The Mets said Wednesday that they won't release any further information on Harvey until Thompson issues an official diagnosis.

Harvey, who pitched well in his return from Tommy John surgery last year, has struggled mightily to reclaim his ace status this season. He owns a career-worst 4.86 ERA across 17 starts, and he's failed to pitch out of the fourth inning in each of his last two outings.

Harvey's worrisome condition follows last week's news that fellow starters Noah Syndergaard and Steven Matz are pitching through bone spurs in their elbows, while Zack Wheeler's recovery from Tommy John surgery remains stalled amid multiple setbacks.