The New York Mets have moved pitcher Kodai Senga to the bullpen following a series of difficult outings, including a disastrous performance Tuesday night against the Chicago Cubs. Senga's earned run average (ERA) has risen to 10.08 over his seven starts this season.
In the Mets' 9-6 defeat to the Cubs on Tuesday, Senga allowed seven runs and issued five walks in just 3 ⅔ innings pitched. This outing contributed to his removal from the starting rotation, which currently ranks 27th in Major League Baseball with a 4.87 ERA.
Senga recently returned to the team this month after an absence of over seven weeks due to a back injury. Since his return, he has posted a 0-2 record with a 12.91 ERA. He has not made any relief appearances in his four seasons with the Mets.
Manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that Senga's role in the bullpen could involve pitching multiple innings and potentially high-leverage situations, depending on game circumstances. "Just like some of the other guys, he could be pitching like multi-inning guys," Mendoza said. "He could be pitching high-leverage situations if we need him to. The game will dictate. We saw what he’s capable of doing. We’ve seen flashes of it. You see that first inning [Tuesday] and he comes out and is throwing 98-99, just throwing that fastball by people. So I think he’s just keeping it simple out of that role."
Mendoza also noted that Senga, who has been with the Mets for four seasons, has been professional and understanding about the team's decision. "He’s a pro," Mendoza stated. "He understands where we’re at as a team. He knows that he hasn’t been at his best. He’s been dealing with injuries and all that, but he knows obviously that he’s more than capable to continue to help the team win baseball games. He was very respectful, professional. He understood. He’ll be ready to go."