Kodai Senga’s Struggles Continue as Mets Seek Solutions
NEW YORK – The New York Mets are facing a challenging situation with right-hander Kodai Senga, who recently opted to be sent to Triple-A Syracuse to refine his pitching mechanics. Initially, the expectation was that Senga would return to the major league roster shortly after his eligibility date of September 20. However, recent developments indicate that this may not be the case.
Senga’s Recent Performance
In a call with team officials, Senga expressed that, despite being physically healthy, he does not feel prepared to pitch at the major league level. This sentiment follows a disappointing outing on Thursday, where he allowed four runs over just 3⅔ innings against Triple-A hitters. With the minor league season concluding soon, the Mets have decided that Senga will instead face hitters in a simulated game next week, likely on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza commented on Senga’s performance, noting a decline in his pitching effectiveness. “Stuff-wise, he was down,” Mendoza said, referring to Senga’s velocity and the sharpness of his secondary pitches. This regression is concerning, especially given that Senga had previously shown promise in his first start after being optioned, where he pitched six innings, allowing only one run and striking out eight batters.
A History of Mechanical Issues
This is not the first time Senga has expressed discomfort with his pitching mechanics. Last season, he delayed his debut until late July due to mechanical problems, even after recovering from a shoulder injury. His first start of the season was marred by a calf strain, which sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season.
In 2023, Senga began the season as one of the league’s top pitchers, boasting a remarkable 1.47 ERA over 73⅔ innings across 13 starts. However, a hamstring strain on June 12 disrupted his momentum. After returning to the mound, Senga struggled significantly, posting a 6.56 ERA in his subsequent eight starts. The Mets, who had once held the best record in baseball, found themselves in a precarious position as Senga’s performance faltered.
The Impact on the Team
The Mets’ current predicament is exacerbated by injuries to other starting pitchers and the underperformance of Sean Manaea. As a result, the team has been forced to rely on three rookies-Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong, and Brandon Sproat-to fill the rotation during a critical playoff race. McLean has particularly stood out, achieving a 1.19 ERA with 40 strikeouts in six starts, and is expected to play a significant role if the Mets reach the postseason.
Mendoza acknowledged the challenges posed by Senga’s ongoing struggles, stating, “Healthwise, he’s 100 percent fine. There’s no issues with him. He’s not favoring anything.” The team is grappling with the question of how to help Senga regain his early-season form, as they continue to search for answers.
Future Considerations
Looking ahead, Senga’s status remains uncertain. Mendoza mentioned that Senga could potentially be considered for the Mets’ final series against the Miami Marlins, but this would depend on several factors, including his performance in the simulated game. Last year, the Mets made room for Senga in the postseason despite his long absence from the mound, but the circumstances this year may differ significantly.
“We gotta get there first,” Mendoza said, emphasizing the need for careful evaluation before making any decisions regarding Senga’s return.
Conclusion
As the Mets navigate the complexities of their pitching staff, the situation surrounding Kodai Senga serves as a microcosm of the team’s broader struggles. With the postseason looming, the Mets must find a way to stabilize their rotation and ensure that their key players are performing at their best. Senga’s journey, marked by mechanical issues and inconsistent performances, will be a critical storyline to watch as the season draws to a close. The Mets are hopeful that with the right adjustments, Senga can reclaim his form and contribute to the team’s playoff aspirations.
