Senga Aims for Late-Season Return Amid Mets’ Playoff Push
Kodai Senga, the Mets' beleaguered pitcher, hopes to make a comeback before the regular season concludes on September 29. The 31-year-old athlete has faced a season plagued by injuries, significantly hindering his contributions to the team. Despite the setbacks, there is cautious optimism in the Mets' camp regarding his return.
A Troubled Season
Senga, who has battled multiple injuries throughout the year, estimates his recovery to be between 70% and 80%. These injuries have limited him to just one major-league appearance this season. Initially sidelined by a shoulder capsule strain until July 26, Senga's misfortune continued when his first game back resulted in a high-grade calf strain, further delaying his comeback.
Last season, Senga was a vital cog in the Mets' rotation, boasting a remarkable 2.98 ERA across 29 starts. His stellar performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game and impressive rankings in both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award voting, finishing second and seventh, respectively. He also posted an impressive 2.62 strikeout-to-walk ratio and an estimated 4.5 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference.
Impact on Mets' Playoff Hopes
The absence of Senga has had a noticeable impact on the Mets' starting rotation, which has been under constant strain due to other key absences. Both Paul Blackburn and Christian Scott are currently unavailable, with Scott requiring season-ending elbow surgery. As a result, the Mets have had to rely heavily on their bullpen and less experienced starters to fill the void.
This has come at a critical juncture in the season. The Mets are currently tied with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the second wild-card spot, holding a marginal two-game lead over the Atlanta Braves. The upcoming three-game series against the Braves could very well determine the season series tiebreaker and which team advances to the playoffs. The pressure is mounting, and Senga's potential return could provide the much-needed boost to the Mets' postseason aspirations.
Optimism and Challenges
Despite the challenges, there is a general sense of cautious optimism regarding Senga’s return. Mets' executive David Stearns expressed hope, stating, "If all continues to progress as it is right now, we should see him."
However, the road to recovery for Senga is intricate. Given his limited playtime this season, questions remain about his ability to perform at the level he previously showcased. His impending return could significantly alleviate the pressure on the Mets' beleaguered bullpen, providing stability to their pitching roster.
Looking Back on a Stellar Rookie Campaign
Reflecting on last season, Senga’s impact on the team was indelible. His performance not only earned him personal accolades but also played a significant role in the Mets’ success. His 2.98 ERA and 2.62 strikeout-to-walk ratio exemplified his command and effectiveness on the mound. The 4.5 WAR underscores his overall value to the team, making his absence this season even more glaring.
Conclusion
As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Mets are in a critical phase, vying for a playoff spot with the return of Kodai Senga looming as a pivotal factor. His potential to contribute, even in a limited capacity, could provide the lift that the team sorely needs. With the upcoming series against the Braves set to determine their postseason fate, Senga's comeback could not be more timely or consequential.