Harvey works with future batterymate d'Arnaud

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- The future was on display Sunday afternoon in Kissimmee, Fla., where Matt Harvey made his Grapefruit League debut pitching to new batterymate Travis d'Arnaud.

"I thought we both did well," d'Arnaud told reporters in Kissimmee. "As far as me and Matt go, it was my first time catching him. I'll get to learn how he pitches and everything soon. We've got time."

Harvey struck three batters and gave up one run over two innings, in his first outing of what should be a stress-free spring for the right-hander. Unlike last year, when he kept one eye trained on his long-shot bid to make the Opening Day roster, Harvey is guaranteed a rotation spot heading into this season.

As a result, he can use his Grapefruit League outings to work on secondary pitches and refine his fastball command, two areas of concern for the former top prospect.

"My arm and body are in shape," Harvey told reporters. "It's just a matter of the location not quite [being] there. I made a lot of good pitches, but I also made some that missed the plate a little too much. It's early. I'm happy where my arm's at."

Harvey can also spend time developing a rapport with d'Arnaud, who could serve as his catcher for the next six years or more. The Mets are eager to see d'Arnaud develop relationships with Harvey and Zack Wheeler, whom they consider cornerstones of their future rotation.