The New York Mets have been one of the most impressive teams through their first 69 games of the season, and a major reason for that success has been their outstanding pitching staff — led by three-time NPB All-Star Kodai Senga.
Senga is in the midst of one of the best pitching campaigns in all of baseball, helping the Mets lead the league with a 2.82 team ERA. Unfortunately, just as in the previous season, an injury has interrupted his stellar run.
Kodai Senga Sidelined with Hamstring Injury
During the Mets’ 4-3 series-clinching win over the Washington Nationals on Thursday, Senga suffered a hamstring injury while attempting to snag an errant throw from first baseman Pete Alonso. He had nearly completed six innings before the mishap. Though he walked off the field under his own power, the team expects him to miss some time.
Manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged the setback and referenced Senga’s similar injury troubles last season.
“It’s tough to say right now, but we know he’s going to be down. As soon as he grabbed his hamstring, we feared the worst — we’ve seen this before. We’ll have a better idea after tomorrow.”
Before exiting, Senga delivered a dominant performance: one hit, one walk, and five strikeouts. It’s the kind of production New York will sorely miss. Over 13 starts and 73.2 innings this season, Senga has given up just 51 hits, 12 runs, and 31 walks, while striking out 70 and maintaining a remarkable 1.47 ERA.
Although the Mets still have capable arms like David Peterson, Clay Holmes, and Huascar Brazoban, Senga’s absence creates a noticeable dip in their rotation’s overall effectiveness. They’ll also need to fill the void of a reliable fifth starter.
With the hamstring injury landing him on the injured list, Senga is required to sit out at least 15 days. Outfielder Brandon Nimmo expressed sympathy for his teammate.
“He’s been incredible this year and puts in so much work. It’s tough to see him go down, especially with a hamstring.”
Mets Adjusting Without Their Ace
To help cover the loss, the Mets are calling up right-hander Max Kranick. While not a permanent fix, Kranick has posted a 3.51 ERA over 22 relief appearances this season and brings some stability to the staff.
Currently holding the best record in the league, the Mets remain in a tight race with the Detroit Tigers and lead the NL East by 5.5 games over the Phillies, another major contender for the National League pennant.
Still awaiting MRI results on Senga’s injury, the Mets know they’ll need to tread carefully. Rushing him back could jeopardize their playoff hopes — and that’s a risk they can’t afford to take.