SAN FRANCISCO — Just before his much-anticipated major league debut two Sundays ago, while his teammates were finishing a suspended game, Steven Matz retreated into the recesses of Citi Field. He did not pace or fret or review his game plan one last time. He had an unusual request for his coaches, though: He wanted to take some swings in the cage.
In the minors, Matz had made a habit of doing so every time he pitched. It made him feel more prepared at the plate and, in a way, put his mind at ease. Matz is a throwback in that way, like the football player who plays both ways — the pitcher who truly enjoys hitting.