Adam Rubin of ESPN New York writes that Matt Koch took a big step Saturday on a back field at the Mets’ complex, when he threw batting practice, which was the first time that he faced hitters since he was struck in the head by a line drive while pitching for Savannah (A) last August 2nd. Koch was hospitalized for three days while suffering from bruising on the brain.

In 2013, Koch was 6-4, a 4.70 ERA, in 15 starts for the Sand Gnats before the injury ended his season.

Nice to finally face hitters again. It was too long of a wait.

— Matt Koch (@mattykoch20) March 1, 2014