Kodai Senga Eyes Comeback Before Season's End
As the regular season edges towards its conclusion, the New York Mets are cautiously optimistic about the potential return of pitcher Kodai Senga. The 31-year-old right-hander, who has been sidelined by a series of injuries this season, is aiming to make a comeback before the season wraps up on September 29.
Senga's season has been plagued by health issues, with his action limited to just a single major-league appearance. Initially, a shoulder capsule strain kept him out of action until July 26. Upon his return, Senga's momentum was halted once again by a high-grade calf strain, further complicating his season.
Despite these hurdles, Senga estimates his current recovery to be between 70% and 80%. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns provided a hopeful outlook, stating, "If all continues to progress as it is right now, we should see him." This statement has infused a sense of cautious optimism among the Mets' supporters and within the camp itself.
Senga's Impact and Injuries' Effect on the Mets
Senga's prolonged absence has significantly strained the Mets' starting rotation, already weakened by other key absences. Both Paul Blackburn and Christian Scott are currently unavailable, with Scott requiring season-ending elbow surgery. The team has been forced to lean heavily on their bullpen and less experienced starters to fill the gap left by their missing aces.
Last season, Senga was a crucial asset for the Mets, solidifying his position as one of the league’s premier pitchers. He posted an impressive 2.98 ERA across 29 starts, earning a spot in the All-Star Game. His contributions also included a 2.62 strikeout-to-walk ratio and an estimated 4.5 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference. Senga's stellar performance saw him finish second in the Rookie of the Year Award voting and seventh in the Cy Young Award voting.
Playoff Implications
The timing of Senga's potential return could be pivotal for the Mets’ playoff hopes. The team is currently tied with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the second wild-card spot, holding a narrow two-game lead over the Atlanta Braves. The upcoming three-game series against the Braves looms large, potentially determining the season series tiebreaker and deciding which team advances to the playoffs.
Without their key pitchers, the Mets have grappled with maintaining their competitive edge. The return of Senga, even at less than full strength, could provide a much-needed boost to their playoff aspirations. His experience and skill on the mound could alleviate some pressure off the overworked bullpen and provide stability in crucial games down the stretch.
Looking Forward
As the clock ticks towards the end of the season, the Mets will be closely monitoring Senga's rehabilitation progress. While the team remains hopeful, they understand the risks involved in rushing a player back from injury too soon. The goal is to have Senga contribute meaningfully in the remaining games, ensuring that his recovery is sustainable and beneficial for both the player and the team.
The Mets' fans, meanwhile, are keeping a watchful eye on updates regarding Senga's condition, hoping for the kind of comeback that can inspire a last-minute charge into the playoffs. With the stakes as high as they are, the potential return of Kodai Senga could very well be the deciding factor in what has been a tumultuous season for the New York Mets.
Ultimately, Senga’s situation is a microcosm of the Mets’ 2023 campaign – a year filled with promise tempered by challenges, with everyone involved hoping for a strong finish.