Kodai Senga is showing signs of success in a new role for the New York Mets, pitching effectively as a late-inning reliever. Senga secured a save in the Mets' 4-1 victory over the Washington Nationals on August 14, 2026, marking his fourth consecutive scoreless appearance and second save.

Interim manager Andy Green indicated that with Devin Williams on the injured list, Senga will continue to be utilized in high-leverage situations out of the bullpen. "He's done a good job," Green said. "He's attacked hitters [and] filled up the strike zone. He'll continue to pitch in leverage situations." Green added that Senga could also pitch in the eighth inning, depending on matchups.

Senga has embraced the transition to relief pitching after struggling as a starter following his promising rookie season. "It's easier to prepare when you know you're going in later in the game," Senga stated through an interpreter. "You're always physically and mentally prepared." He also expressed confidence in his ability to pitch on back-to-back days, a task he has yet to undertake as a reliever.

Mets' 4-1 win over the Nationals saw Senga enter in the top of the ninth inning with a three-run lead. The choice of Michael Jackson's "Beat It" as his entrance music drew attention, which Senga said he selected because it's a "great song."

Green praised Senga's composed approach to the role, noting, "I don't see an ounce of fear. I see somebody attack the situation. That's what you're looking for."

This late-inning success contrasts with the initial expectations when the Mets signed Senga to a five-year, $75 million deal prior to the 2023 season. The team is hopeful that his combination of a four-seam fastball and forkball will be effective in relief. Green specifically highlighted Senga's final pitch, a forkball that sealed the win, as perfect.

Senga's performance in the ninth inning against the Nationals involved retiring the first two batters before allowing a single and hitting a batter. He ultimately ended the game by retiring the next batter. This comes after Senga had a 10.08 ERA in his final starts as a member of the rotation on June 23.

Despite the adjustments, Senga acknowledged the unique "adrenaline" of pitching from the bullpen. With another year and $15 million remaining on his contract, he is expected to continue in this role.

In other team news, Mark Vientos is progressing with hitting, fielding, and agility drills following a fractured right hand, though his rehab assignment timeline remains uncertain. Francisco Lindor contributed a game-tying home run in the sixth inning, offsetting an earlier error that led to an unearned run.