Mets Face Playoff Dilemma as Kodai Senga Struggles to Regain Form
As the New York Mets navigate the final stretch of the regular season, their playoff hopes remain alive but fraught with uncertainty. Entering Thursday, the Mets hold a precarious position in the National League Wild Card race, sitting just a game ahead of the Cincinnati Reds for the final postseason spot. However, with only four games left to play—including a crucial matchup against the Chicago Cubs and a three-game series against the Miami Marlins—there remains significant work to be done.
Kodai Senga’s Ongoing Struggles
At the center of the Mets’ concerns is starting pitcher Kodai Senga, whose recent performances have raised eyebrows. In his second minor league start for Triple-A Syracuse on September 18, the 32-year-old was less than stellar, surrendering four runs over 3.2 innings. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provided an update on Senga’s condition, revealing that his live batting practice session in Florida was “just okay.”
Mendoza noted, “He didn’t feel like the velo was there, and that’s what we saw. He’s gonna continue to throw, and then we’ll see where we’re at.” This ambiguity leaves the Mets in a precarious position as they head toward the postseason.
A Sharp Decline Since Injury
Senga’s decline has been steep since he landed on the 10-day injured list due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain on June 12. Prior to this setback, Senga had established himself as a key asset for the Mets, boasting a 7-3 record and an impressive 1.47 ERA. However, since his return, he has yet to find his rhythm, posting an 0-3 record with his ERA ballooning to 3.02. This downturn prompted the Mets to send him to the minors in hopes of rediscovering his former prowess.
With the regular season winding down, Senga’s inability to regain his form has left the Mets wrestling with a difficult decision. If the team manages to secure a playoff berth, the $75 million ace could find himself on the outside looking in when it comes to postseason roster construction.
The Road Ahead for the Mets
The Mets face a challenging road ahead as they attempt to solidify their playoff position. The looming question is whether Senga can turn things around in time to contribute in a meaningful way. As the clock ticks down, the organization is left grappling with the implications of Senga’s struggles, all while trying to maintain their foothold in a competitive postseason landscape.
