UPDATE: Kodai Senga is set to pitch for Triple-A Syracuse tonight, fighting for a crucial spot on the New York Mets’ postseason roster. Following a stellar start to the season with a 1.47 ERA over his first 12 starts, Senga’s recent struggles, including a 5.90 ERA after returning from a hamstring injury, have put his postseason bid in jeopardy.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the urgency of Senga’s performance, stating, “I think we’ll take the 13 guys that we feel are going to give us the best chance to win baseball games in October.” The Mets, currently 1.5 games ahead of the Arizona Diamondbacks for the final National League playoff spot, are closely monitoring Senga’s performance as they prepare for the playoffs.
Senga’s last outing was promising; he struck out eight batters and allowed just three hits in his Syracuse debut last Friday. Mendoza noted, “I like the fact that there were no walks. I think it starts with him throwing strike one and then staying on the attack.”
The Mets are grappling with a depleted pitching staff. Just today, right-hander Reed Garrett was placed on the injured list for a second time this month due to elbow issues. Meanwhile, Sean Manaea has been put on the paternity list, adding further strain to the rotation. The team has called up right-handers Huascar Brazoban, Chris Devenski, and Wander Suero from Triple-A to bolster their ranks.
Mendoza expressed concern over Garrett’s recovery, stating, “It’s concerning that for the second time in less than a month, a guy’s gone down with elbow issues.” Garrett has posted a 3.90 ERA and three saves in a career-high 58 games this season. With the Mets utilizing a record 46 pitchers this year, depth is essential as they approach the postseason.
Looking ahead, Senga’s performance tonight could dictate his role in the upcoming playoff series against the Washington Nationals. As the Mets prepare for the playoffs, they are under immense pressure to finalize their roster, and Senga’s success or failure on the mound could have significant implications.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of Senga’s pivotal start, knowing that his performance could be the difference in a competitive postseason race. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the Mets seek to solidify their playoff chances.