MLB

Mets’ Harvey undergoing ‘intense’ rehab

Matt Harvey’s rehab is still in the infancy stages.

According to manager Terry Collins, the Mets ace has been undergoing “pretty intense rehabilitation” of the torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow at the Hospital for Special Surgery, but doesn’t have a timetable yet to begin throwing.

Harvey is expected to begin a throwing program that lasts 6-8 weeks to determine if he can avoid Tommy John surgery that would likely cost him all of next season.

Harvey will report to the team’s complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla. when it’s determined he can begin throwing.

“We hope that’s soon,” Collins said before the Mets beat the Brewers 3-2 on Sunday. “Once he gets down there and begins the throwing program, we’ll see what the stages are, where he’s at. But he does have to pitch someplace. I’m not sure we’ll be able to determine his status throwing on the side.”

Last week, general manager Sandy Alderson suggested Harvey could see action in the Arizona Fall League to test his elbow.

***

Among the noticeable absentees for Mike Piazza’s induction into the Mets Hall of Fame was Piazza’s former manager with the team for five seasons, Bobby Valentine. According to sources, Valentine — who worked in-studio for SNY on Sunday — was not extended an invitation to the event. Piazza provided the club with a list of people he wanted invited.

***

Even with Sunday’s victory, the Mets finished with the 10th-worst record in the major leagues and are guaranteed a protected first-round draft pick for next year. That draft status will allow the Mets to sign a free agent to whom a qualifying offer is made without fear of losing their first-round draft pick in 2014 as compensation.

***

Eric Young Jr. stole two bases to finish with 46 and claim the NL crown. Jose Reyes, who led the NL in 2005-07, is the only other Mets player to lead the league in stolen bases.

“Getting the opportunity to play every day, that is all I ever asked for,” said Young, who arrived in a June trade with the Rockies. “To get it here, I’m so thankful to the Mets for giving me this opportunity.”