The New York Mets have made a surprising decision by naming Kodai Senga as their Game 1 starter for the NL Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Senga, who signed a lucrative contract with the Mets before the 2023 season, has had a remarkable journey in his brief major league career.
Despite limited playing time this year due to injuries, Senga has shown his potential as a top-tier pitcher. In his debut season, he earned an All-Star selection and finished as the runner-up in the NL Rookie of the Year voting, thanks to his impressive record of 12-7 with a 2.98 ERA in 29 starts.
The 31-year-old Japanese pitcher has faced challenges this season, including injuries to his right triceps and left calf, which restricted him to just one start. However, Senga has remained determined and expressed readiness for the upcoming Game 1, emphasizing his control over his body and the game's outcome.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has confirmed Senga's readiness for the crucial game but has not disclosed the pitch count for the starter. Mendoza highlighted Senga's eagerness to take the mound, which instilled confidence in the team's decision to entrust him with the Game 1 start.
In a thrilling Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Mets secured a 4-2 victory in the decisive third game, with Pete Alonso delivering a game-winning three-run homer in the ninth inning off Brewers' closer Devin Williams. Senga credited his successful rehabilitation process for bringing him to this pivotal point in the season.
As the Mets gear up to face the Phillies in the NL Division Series, all eyes will be on Kodai Senga as he looks to make a significant impact in his limited playing time this year. Stay tuned for the exciting matchup between the Mets and the Phillies as Senga takes the mound in Game 1.
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