Kodai Senga has found a new stride in the New York Mets bullpen, but his exact role for the upcoming season remains undecided, according to David Stearns, president of baseball operations.
Senga, who joined the Mets as a starter, experienced a challenging period with a 10.08 ERA after a June 23 start, leading to his move to relief pitching. Since transitioning to the bullpen, and eventually stepping into the closer role vacated by Devin Williams, Senga has shown renewed effectiveness. He has successfully converted all five of his save opportunities and posted a 1.54 ERA over 12 appearances in short bursts since the trade deadline created additional bullpen openings.
"It's fun to see," Stearns said prior to the Mets' 10-6 victory over the Giants on Sept. 4, 2026. "I think his investment in that role — even though he views himself as a starter, I think he'd prefer to start — but his investment in that role and the way he embraced that role I think is a great example for his teammates, for the organization as a whole. … And he’s done a great job. Where that is going forward next year? Still to be determined."
Despite his recent success in relief, Senga was a 2023 All-Star and possesses a high ceiling as a starter. However, he has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency since that distinction. The Mets' projected rotation for next season includes Nolan McLean, Christian Scott, and Sean Manaea. Zac Thornton continues to make a case for a starting spot, with Robert Stock, Tylor Megill, and Jonah Tong also in consideration, alongside potential additions through free agency or trades.
Stearns indicated that decisions regarding Senga's role for the 2027 season will be made this winter and spring, following an evaluation of his performance through August and September. Senga is under contract for $15 million next season.
In other roster news, Sean Manaea, who has a 4.70 ERA, is expected to remain with the team next season. "I think in general, we need Sean to go out and have a really good offseason, come back, and he’s going to be a part of this team next year," Stearns said of Manaea, who is due $25 million next year. "We’re going to count on him, and he’s demonstrated that he can perform at a high level and contribute to a major league team."
Stearns also addressed the team's front office structure, stating that he is exploring all avenues for improvement, which includes the potential hiring of a general manager. He reiterated that interim manager Andy Green is expected to return to a front-office role after the current season concludes. The Mets have also announced their tentative 2027 spring training schedule, which begins Feb. 19 in Port St. Lucie against the Marlins.