Mets Experiment with Kodai Senga as Leverage Reliever

The New York Mets are testing Kodai Senga as a leverage reliever following the trade of multiple bullpen arms ahead of the deadline. This decision comes as the team seeks to explore new options in their pitching lineup.

Senga, who joined the Mets in December 2022 on a five-year, $75 million contract, had a promising start with a 2.98 ERA in 2023. However, injuries plagued his subsequent seasons, limiting his appearances and effectiveness. After struggling early this season, he was moved to the bullpen where he has been working in long relief.

With the recent trades of Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, and Huascar Brazobán, the Mets are looking for pitchers to step up in setup roles. Senga's performance in this new role began recently, and the team hopes his pitching repertoire, particularly his four-seamer and forkball, will be effective in shorter outings. The outcome of this experiment could influence the Mets' offseason decisions regarding Senga, who is under contract for another year.