UPDATE: New reports confirm that New York Mets right-hander Kodai Senga will not return to the major leagues after expressing his discomfort following a challenging outing in Triple-A Syracuse. Despite being healthy, Senga surrendered four runs over just 3.2 innings on September 14, prompting concerns about his readiness to compete at the highest level.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that Senga is seeking additional time to refine his mechanics before rejoining the team. The plan is for him to face hitters in a simulated setting next week, potentially on September 19 or 20, as the minor league season wraps up on September 17. “We’re having those conversations, but it’s too early to tell,” Mendoza stated, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Senga’s future.
Senga’s recent performance marks a significant regression from his promising start. Earlier this month, he recorded an impressive outing of six innings with only one run allowed and eight strikeouts. However, the latest game raised alarms about his velocity and execution. “Stuff wise, he was down,” Mendoza noted, emphasizing the need for Senga to address these issues.
This isn’t the first instance of Senga, 32, delaying his major league return due to mechanical concerns. Last year, he postponed his debut until late July after a shoulder injury and subsequently faced additional setbacks, including a calf strain. This season, Senga showcased elite performance with a 1.47 ERA over 73.2 innings before suffering a hamstring strain on June 12. His return saw initial success, but he struggled afterward, posting a troubling 6.56 ERA across his last eight starts, contributing to the Mets’ decline in the standings.
The Mets, now in a playoff race, are feeling the impact of Senga’s struggles alongside injuries to other pitchers. With Sean Manaea’s inefficiency forcing the team to rely heavily on rookies, including Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong, and Brandon Sproat, the pressure is mounting. McLean has excelled with a 1.19 ERA in six starts, while Tong and Sproat’s futures in the rotation remain uncertain.
Mendoza hinted that Senga could “maybe” be considered for the Mets’ final series against the Miami Marlins, but this would require several unknown steps. The Mets are in a precarious position, needing effective pitching as they aim for postseason contention.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, hoping for a turnaround from Senga, who last season made significant contributions despite not pitching for over two months. “We gotta get there first,” Mendoza reiterated, emphasizing the urgent need for Senga to find his form again.
As the Mets navigate this critical juncture of the season, Senga’s journey will be pivotal. His ability to bounce back could influence not only his career but also the team’s postseason aspirations. Stay tuned for the latest updates on Senga’s status as the Mets strive for success in the final stretch.
