Mets weigh options as Kodai Senga struggles in Triple-A start

The New York Mets face an uncertain decision over Kodai Senga's postseason role after the right-hander faltered in a minor league tune-up.

Senga, who agreed to a rare option to Triple-A Syracuse earlier this month to reset his mechanics, surrendered four runs over 3 2/3 innings on Thursday against Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia's Triple-A affiliate.

Manager Carlos Mendoza, asked Thursday if Senga was assured a spot on a potential playoff roster, couldn't give a definitive answer.

"I wouldn't say definitely," Mendoza said. "We'll have the conversations and we'll take the best 13 guys that we feel are going to give us the best chance to win baseball games in October. In the meantime, we've got 10 more (games) and we'll continue to treat it that way."

Senga is not eligible to rejoin the major league club until Saturday, but the Mets are planning a simulated session next week instead of another minor league start with Syracuse's season ending Sunday.

The 32-year-old Japanese pitcher opened 2025 as one of baseball's most effective arms, posting a 1.47 ERA in his first 13 starts before straining a hamstring in June. He returned from the injured list but slumped to a 5.90 ERA across his next nine outings, failing to reach the sixth inning in all but one start. That prompted the demotion earlier this month, which required his consent due to protections in his five-year, $75 million contract.

Senga showed signs of progress in his first Syracuse outing, striking out eight without a walk in six strong innings against Worcester. But Thursday's regression, marked by six hits, two walks, a hit batter and a wild pitch, renewed concerns.

The Mets have leaned heavily on younger arms during their postseason push. Rookies Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat joined the rotation. Senga, an All-Star in 2023 who logged three playoff appearances last October, could yet resurface in the bullpen if the Mets advance. But for now, his future in the rotation remains unresolved.

--Field Level Media