UPDATE: As the clock ticks on postseason preparations, Kodai Senga is set to take the mound for Triple-A Syracuse tonight, aiming to secure a coveted spot on the New York Mets postseason pitching roster. This critical outing comes just as the Mets strive to solidify their position in the playoffs, currently holding a narrow lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks for the final NL playoff spot.
The urgency is palpable: Senga, who started the season with an impressive 1.47 ERA in his first 12 starts, has struggled recently, posting a 5.90 ERA after returning from a hamstring injury. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the importance of tonight’s performance, stating, “I think we’ll have the conversation and we’ll take the 13 guys that we feel are going to give us the best chance to win baseball games in October.”
With the Mets just 1.5 games ahead of the Diamondbacks, and two games ahead of the Cincinnati Reds and San Francisco Giants, every pitch counts. Fans are anxious to see if Senga can regain his form and help propel the team into the postseason.
In his latest outing for Syracuse, Senga showcased his potential by allowing just three hits and striking out eight batters without issuing any walks. Mendoza remarked on this positive development, saying, “I like the fact that there were no walks. I think it starts with him throwing strike one and then staying on the attack.”
In addition to Senga’s situation, the Mets are dealing with significant roster challenges. Right-hander Reed Garrett has been placed back on the injured list due to a right elbow sprain, marking his second stint on the IL in less than a month. His absence raises concerns, especially after experiencing discomfort while warming up during a recent game against the San Diego Padres.
“It’s concerning that for the second time in less than a month, a guy’s gone down with elbow issues,” Mendoza said, highlighting the weight of the situation.
Garrett, who has made a career-high 58 appearances this season, is unlikely to pitch again in 2023, even if no serious damage is found. The Mets have already utilized a major league-record 46 pitchers this season, further complicating their postseason aspirations.
To compensate for these losses, the Mets have recalled right-handers Huascar Brazobán, Chris Devenski, and Wander Suero from Syracuse. These pitchers are expected to provide much-needed depth as the Mets navigate their depleted pitching staff. With Sean Manaea currently on the paternity list, the team is in desperate need of reliable arms.
The Mets’ pitching strategy will be under scrutiny as they prepare for their upcoming series against the Washington Nationals. Mendoza confirmed that Manaea is expected to return soon, but the need for immediate reinforcements remains critical.
As the postseason approaches, the pressure mounts for Senga and the Mets. Tonight’s game could be a defining moment for both the player and the team’s October ambitions. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Senga can deliver when it matters most.
