The National League Division Series kicks off on Saturday, and the New York Mets have made a bold move by naming Kodai Senga as their starter for Game 1 against the Philadelphia Phillies. This is a surprising decision, considering Senga has pitched only 5 1/3 innings this season, with his lone start coming on July 26. Senga’s debut was delayed due to a shoulder injury, and he was later placed on the injured list after suffering a calf strain in his only 2024 appearance ². Despite this, the Mets are counting on him to lead the charge in the postseason.
Kodai Senga to Start Game 1 of NLDS Against Phillies
Senga has been working his way back to a return from a calf injury.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza mentioned that Senga had been building up in Florida, but didn’t specify any pitch or inning limits for Game 1. Before this announcement, Senga had thrown 25 pitches during a live bullpen session on Monday, but details on his subsequent work are scarce. It’s worth noting that Senga made just one start during the regular season due to injuries, following a strong 2023 rookie campaign where he went 12-7 with a 2.98 ERA in 29 starts.
Kodai Senga is starting Game 1 of the NLDS tomorrow for the Mets pic.twitter.com/nFOjRRdIKK
— SNY (@SNYtv) October 4, 2024
The Mets have depth options behind Senga in David Peterson and Tylor Megill.
Mets Pitching Notes
Luis Severino will start Game 2 on Sunday after pitching 5 innings in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series. Severino’s familiarity with postseason pressure and his ability to navigate the Phillies lineup will be crucial.
For Game 3 at Citi Field, the Mets can choose between Sean Manaea and Jose Quintana. Both left-handers boast impressive postseason experience and the ability to neutralize the Phillies’ potent offense.
However, the Mets’ bullpen depth has been affected by Peterson’s relief appearance in Game 3 of the Wild Card Series. Peterson closed out the game, which may limit his availability for another contest in the NLDS. This could prompt manager Carlos Mendoza to explore alternative relief options. The Mets’ pitching strategy will be closely watched, particularly with Senga’s limited innings this season and Severino’s short rest. How Mendoza manages his staff will play a significant role in determining the outcome of the series.
Main Photo: © Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
