Kodai Senga Returns Tonight

One of the Mets’ best starters, Kodai Senga, will make his return to a regular-season mound for the first time since July of last season, when he made his first and only start against the Atlanta Braves. He earned the win after hurling 5.1 solid innings of two-run baseball, but he would suffer a high-grade calf strain during that game, which would derail his season, putting him back on the shelf until the postseason, when he made two starts and one appearance out of the bullpen.

He missed the first couple months of the season with a shoulder injury.

Focusing on the present day now, Senga will try and get back to his 2023 self, where he put up great numbers and showed the Mets the ace potential he possess. However, he hasn’t been able to fully step into the role cause of injuries so tonight is a big night for Senga to get back on track. Let’s go over some things to look for in Senga’s return tonight.

1. NEW PITCH(es)?

Senga has been working on a two-seamer/sinker to help against his reverse splits. This pitch debuted this spring, and Senga could feature it tonight. Along with the two-seamer, Senga also debuted a 63.5 MPH “miracle ball”; in his own words, the movement profile of that pitch was curveball-esque.

Senga told Anthony DiComo of MLB.com he “doesn’t know’ if it will be part of his regular arsenal, so that’s also something to keep an eye on.

2. PITCH COUNT

It’s been reported by Tim Healey of Newsday that the Mets plan on keeping Senga on a pitch count hovering around 75. The Mets have been and will be cautious with Kodai, trying to keep him healthy and a part of the rotation the whole year.

It’s unknown how long the Mets plan on keeping Senga on a pitch count, but you can certainly guess these first couple starts for the right-handed starter will be under strict orders. That, plus frequent off days, should help him ease into the season.

3. CONTROL

When Senga returned in the post-season, his control looked off as he walked seven batters in five innings, which is just not a recipe for success in the major leagues. The control this spring has looked better as he only walked two batters in nine innings of work.

Even in his elite rookie year back in 2023, he posted an 11.1 BB%, which was in the 15th percentile of the league. There are certainly times he just loses control.

The Mets take on the Marlins at LoanDepot park, with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 p.m. Senga goes for the Mets, and Alcantara goes for the Marlins.

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