Senga secures first save in Mets’ victory over Braves

New York Mets pitcher Kodai Senga recorded his first career save on Monday night, closing out an 8-5 victory over the Atlanta Braves with a scoreless ninth inning. The right-hander struck out two batters and issued one walk to secure the win, marking a functional shift in his role after being moved to short relief in his fourth major league season.

Senga entered the game with the opportunity to close after the Mets placed closer Devin Williams on the 15-day injured list earlier in the day. Interim manager Andy Green, who had remained non-committal regarding the closer position prior to the match, called on Senga with New York holding an 8-5 lead. Senga struck out Matt Olson and Michael Harris II to open the frame before walking Ozzie Albies and retiring Mauricio Dubón on a fly out to rookie Carson Benge.

The conclusion of the game featured an unexpected incident involving the game ball. After recording the final out, Benge inadvertently threw the ball into the Atlanta crowd, denying Senga the souvenir he had hoped to retain. Senga, who had been aware of the tradition, held out his arms in disbelief as he and catcher Francisco Alvarez called for the ball in vain.

Benge appeared sheepish upon realising the error, placing his hands on his head while Senga doubled over in laughter. Following the game, Senga remarked that he believed Benge was joking about punching him out, noting that the rookie had not yet managed to retrieve the ball for him.

Senga has not allowed a run in his last three appearances out of the bullpen. He joined the Mets from Japan on a $75 million, five-year contract before the 2023 season with the intention of being a starter. While he posted a 12-7 record with a 2.98 ERA in 29 starts that year, he has struggled with injuries and ineffectiveness since, holding a 0-8 record with an 8.12 ERA in eight starts and eight relief appearances this season.

The Mets are currently last in their division but have won six of their last nine games on a road trip. This recent performance follows a significant roster turnover ahead of the trade deadline, which included a selloff that depleted their bullpen.