A New Beginning for Kodai Senga
Kodai Senga has been through a challenging journey over the past year, but he is now ready to put his injury troubles behind him. After a highly successful rookie campaign in 2022, where he finished seventh in NL Cy Young voting, Senga was expected to solidify his position at the top of the Mets’ rotation. However, a series of injuries, including issues with his shoulder, triceps, and calf, limited him to just four outings in the 2023 season. Despite these setbacks, Senga managed to make a significant impact in the playoffs, showing glimpses of the dominant pitcher he can be. Now, as the 2024 season approaches, Senga is fully healthy and optimistic about the future.
A Strong Start to Spring Training
Senga’s spring training got off to an encouraging start when he took the mound for his first live batting practice session on Saturday. The Japanese right-hander threw 16 pitches and faced a lineup that included Ronny Mauricio, Francisco Alvarez, and Jeff McNeil. He retired the first three batters in order, mixing in all of his pitches and reaching up to 96 mph on the radar gun, as noted by Anthony Dicomo of MLB.com. Although he allowed a hard-hit line drive to Brett Baty, the session was largely positive. "Everything looked good," said Carlos Mendoza, the Mets’ manager. "I saw a smile on his face, which is a good sign. The fact that he’s facing hitters this early in camp is a good sign. It was effortless. I was asking for the velo, and with the way the ball was coming out, it looked good."
The Importance of Gradual Progress
The Mets are taking a cautious approach with Senga’s return, ensuring that he progresses steadily and avoids any relapses. While the team is excited about his potential, they are prioritizing his long-term health and well-being. Mendoza emphasized that the goal is to build Senga up gradually, allowing him to rediscover his form and confidence without the pressure of immediate expectations. "We want to build him up to be himself and a player for us," Mendoza said. "We don’t want him to feel like he has to be the hero or the ace of the staff right away. We want him to go through his progression to be a healthy player and ready to make a positive impact."
A Competitive Rotation
The Mets’ rotation boasts a wealth of talent, with six capable starting pitchers vying for spots. Alongside Senga, the group includes Sean Manaea, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, Frankie Montas, and one of Griffin Canning, Paul Blackburn, or Tylor Megill. While there is no clear-cut ace, the competition is expected to drive everyone to perform at their best. "We have some options at the front-end," Mendoza noted. "Each of these guys has the potential to step up and lead the rotation in different ways. We want them to focus on being the best version of themselves and supporting each other."
Senga’s Role in the Rotation
Despite his injuries, Senga’s talent and potential are undeniable. When healthy and at his best, he can be a formidable presence on the mound. Mendoza has emphasized that there is no pressure on Senga to step into the role of the ace. "We’ve talked to him about that," the manager said. "We want him to be himself and a valuable player for us. We have a strong rotation, and we want him to focus on his progression and being ready to contribute positively." This approach is designed to keep Senga grounded and focused on his own development, rather than feeling the weight of expectations.
Looking Forward to Opening Day
As the Mets prepare for the upcoming season, the return of a healthy and dominant Senga is a significant boost to the team. His presence in the rotation adds depth and versatility, making the Mets a formidable force in the National League. The team’s gradual, cautious approach to his development ensures that Senga can return to form and make a lasting impact. With a strong spring training under his belt, Senga is poised to have an excellent 2024 season, much to the delight of Mets fans and the organization alike.
