Mets Consider Asking Kodai Senga to Accept Minor League Option
As the New York Mets work to finalize their pitching rotation for the upcoming games, they have not confirmed whether Kodai Senga will make his next Major League start.
A report from The Athletic indicates that the Mets might propose a Minor League assignment for Senga, though he must give his consent due to contract stipulations. Mike Puma from the New York Post stated that the Mets plan to determine Senga’s willingness to accept the assignment by Friday.
Manager Carlos Mendoza did not confirm if Senga has been offered a Minor League option but mentioned, “Everything’s on the table.” He acknowledged that Senga’s consent would be necessary if that is the path chosen.
This situation arises amid a troubling period for Senga, an All-Star in 2023, who initially excelled with a 1.47 ERA in his first 13 starts. Unfortunately, he strained his hamstring while covering first base in mid-June and has struggled since. Following his return from the injured list on July 11, Senga’s ERA in nine starts has ballooned to 5.90, with his last outing yielding five runs in 4 2/3 innings.
Currently, the Mets are managing a six-man rotation, with Senga’s next start potentially scheduled for Sunday in a crucial series finale against the Reds, a team vying for a Wild Card spot. Going into Wednesday’s games, the Mets held a five-game lead over Cincinnati.
Senga’s difficulties are part of broader issues within the Mets’ rotation. Left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea, who was an ace last season, has a 5.60 ERA after overcoming an oblique injury. Additionally, All-Star David Peterson has a 7.56 ERA in his last five starts.
However, the emergence of rookie pitchers Nolan McLean and Jonah Tong has been a silver lining. McLean is 4-0 with a remarkable 1.37 ERA in his first four MLB starts, providing much-needed support to the ailing rotation. Following a demanding stretch of games, the Mets will have an off day on Thursday, giving them a chance to reassess their rotation strategy.
