Mets confront $75M challenge as Kodai Senga’s struggles continue
The New York Mets have opted to send pitcher Kodai Senga to Triple-A in hopes of reigniting the spark that once made him a formidable presence on the mound. Recently, Senga has been grappling with a series of concerning issues: diminished fastball velocity, an inability to pitch deep into games, and an overall lack of effectiveness. Given his impressive performance in the rotation over the past year, his current struggles have been unexpected and troubling.
Assessing Senga’s Performance
Carlos Mendoza, the Mets’ manager, recently shared insights into Senga’s situation, noting that the right-hander is doing “OK” but is not finding his rhythm on the field. Despite feeling physically fine, Senga’s struggles have become increasingly evident. Mendoza remarked that the oppressive Florida heat during their training had an impact, causing Senga to tire more quickly than anticipated.
The manager’s candid assessment highlighted the ongoing challenges: “Physically, he feels fine. He’s healthy. But it’s just not clicking.” This statement underscores the complexities of Senga’s situation, as he attempts to regain his footing.
Long-Term Implications for the Mets
The situation with Senga presents a significant dilemma for the Mets, especially as they look toward the future. With a contract extending through 2028, including a team option for that year, the Mets are faced with a substantial financial commitment. The current $75 million investment is becoming a source of concern, particularly as the playoffs draw near and Senga’s performance remains inconsistent.
As it stands, the likelihood of Senga making the postseason roster appears slim. Without significant improvement, it would be challenging for the Mets to include him as they did last year in the NL Division Series. This leaves Senga at a crossroads, with the possibility of heading into the offseason without having pitched in another Major League game.
The Numbers Tell the Story
Three seasons into his five-year, $75 million deal, Senga has logged just 118 2/3 innings across the past two seasons. The Mets still owe him $30 million, which adds urgency to their need for a turnaround. The organization is incentivized to help Senga rediscover his form, whether that comes during the final stretch of this season or, more likely, as they prepare for the next.
The Road Ahead
Complicating matters further, the Triple-A season has concluded, leaving Senga without a clear path to gain valuable game experience. The Mets are now in a precarious position, balancing the pressure of their financial commitment with the need to see tangible results on the mound. As the team navigates this challenging landscape, the focus will be on finding a solution that allows both Senga and the Mets to reclaim their footing in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
