Kodai Senga pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday, securing a 4-3 victory for the New York Mets over the Washington Nationals and completing a series sweep. Senga, who entered the game to protect a one-run lead, retired the side in order, striking out the final two batters. This performance comes as questions continue to loom about his role with the team, particularly his potential long-term position as closer.
Despite not yet pitching on consecutive days, a requirement for a full-time closer role, Senga has shown promising results since being moved to short-inning relief appearances after a difficult stretch as a starter. In five scoreless innings out of the bullpen, he has allowed just one hit and two walks while striking out seven. Interim manager Andy Green stated that Senga is “handling [the role] really well” and “adjusting quickly” to closing games.
"He’s doing everything we want him to do now," Green said. "It’s huge for us. Every single player wants to impact winning and he’s done that in a profound way the last 10 days."
Senga himself has expressed a desire to return to the starting rotation at some point. However, with Devin Williams sidelined indefinitely due to a strained shoulder, Senga is expected to continue receiving opportunities to make an impression in his current role.
In other team news, Carson Benge made two notable defensive plays in right field, contributing to the Mets' defensive effort. Nate Lavender also provided key outs in the seventh inning. Bo Bichette reached base in all four of his plate appearances during the game.