Kodai Senga Eyes Return as Mets Battle for Playoff Spot
Kodai Senga, the Mets' right-handed pitcher, is hopeful to make a comeback before the regular season concludes on September 29. After an injury-plagued year, Senga estimates his current recovery to be around 70-80%, and his potential return could provide a pivotal boost to a rotation in dire need of reinforcements.
Senga, aged 31, has contended with multiple setbacks throughout the 2023 season. His campaign has been a stark contrast to his standout performance last year, where he posted a 2.98 ERA across 29 starts, earned a spot in the All-Star Game, and finished as the runner-up for the Rookie of the Year Award while placing seventh in Cy Young Award voting. Furthermore, he boasted an impressive 2.62 strikeout-to-walk ratio and accumulated an estimated 4.5 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference.
This season, though, has been significantly tougher for Senga. Initially sidelined by a shoulder capsule strain until July 26, his return to the mound was short-lived as he suffered a high-grade calf strain in his first start back. These persistent injury woes have limited him to just a single major-league appearance this year.
Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism within the Mets' camp regarding Senga’s potential return. David Stearns commented, "If all continues to progress as it is right now, we should see him."
Mets' Rotation Under Strain
The Mets' starting rotation has been under considerable strain not only due to Senga's absences but also the unavailability of other key pitchers. Both Paul Blackburn and Christian Scott are currently sidelined, with Scott requiring season-ending elbow surgery. These absences have forced the Mets to lean heavily on their bullpen and give more innings to lesser-experienced starters.
With the Mets currently tied with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the second wild-card spot, each game holds immense significance. They maintain a marginal two-game lead over the Atlanta Braves, whom they are set to face in an upcoming three-game series. This series could prove decisive, potentially determining the season series tiebreaker and which team advances to the playoffs.
The Road Ahead
As Senga works towards his return, the weight of expectation grows. His performance could be key to alleviating the strain on the rotation and providing much-needed depth as the postseason approaches. Last season, Senga demonstrated his ability to be a reliable and effective starter, contributing significantly to the Mets' success. Should he return at a similar level, it would considerably enhance the Mets' chances in the crucial games ahead.
In his absence, the team's resolve and ability to adapt have been put to the test. The Mets have battled through a season marred by injuries, yet they remain in the hunt for a playoff berth. The reliance on the bullpen and lesser-experienced starters has been a constant theme, but the potential return of a key player like Senga could shift the dynamic in their favor. The sentiment within the team edges towards cautious optimism, understanding that Senga’s presence on the mound could be instrumental at this critical juncture.
Ultimately, as the regular season draws to a close, the Mets must navigate the challenges posed not only by their injuries but also by the stiff competition within their division. The upcoming series against the Braves looms large on the calendar, a potential turning point as both teams vie for a postseason spot. The return of Kodai Senga, if achieved, could be the catalyst the Mets need to make a deep playoff run, embodying both their resilience and determination throughout a tumultuous season.