Senga transitions to bullpen role as Mets seek stability

New York Mets pitcher Kodai Senga recorded his first major league save on Monday against the Atlanta Braves, securing a three-run lead in the ninth inning. The relief appearance marks a significant role change for Senga, who was originally slated for the starting rotation but has struggled with injury and performance. He struck out two batters and walked one, sitting at 97.3 mph with his four-seamer. The save occurred after closer Devin Williams was placed on the injured list.

Senga’s four-seamer velocity was 1.1 mph higher than his season average during this outing. He had previously recorded a save in Japan in 2014, but this marks his first at any level since then. Daniel Duarte, Senga’s expected competition for the closer role, pitched the seventh inning in the same game. Senga allowed 10 runs in 12 innings during July while making four of his five appearances as a reliever. He has recorded four strikeouts in three innings over the past week in a traditional single-inning relief role.

Senga was originally slated for the Mets’ starting rotation in 2026 but struggled early, posting a 9.00 ERA in five April starts. He missed nearly two months due to a back injury that required an IL trip. The Mets are currently in a rebuilding phase, described as a "failure" this season, which has led to unconventional roster decisions. Senga had been relegated to mop-up duty for most of the season following his return from injury.

Fantasy baseball analysts note that failed starters sometimes successfully transition to viable relievers, citing examples like Jordan Romano and Kirby Yates. Saves are currently scarce in many fantasy leagues, increasing the value of reliable closers. It is unclear if Senga will retain the closer role long-term, as the Mets may reinstate Devin Williams upon his return from injury. The sustainability of Senga’s performance in the bullpen is uncertain due to the small sample size of his recent relief appearances. It is unknown how the Mets’ front office will manage the bullpen hierarchy once Williams is healthy.

Rookie outfielder Carson Benge threw the final out into the stands, inadvertently depriving Senga of the game ball. Benge missed Senga motioning for him to keep the ball, but he laughed it off as an apologetic Benge jogged off the field. It was a minor moment in a season that has given the Mets little reason to smile.