rewrite this title How Mets should fix their Kodai Senga problem

The New York Mets have a Kodai Senga problem.

A look at Senga’s overall numbers would indicate otherwise. He has posted a solid 3.02 ERA and a 1.315 WHIP over his 113.1 innings, striking out 109 batters with 55 walks. Senga may not match his stellar rookie campaign from 2023, but he has, at least on the surface, been a strong enough option for the Mets.

Kodai Senga could solve New York Mets’ bullpen issues

Those numbers do not reflect how Senga has performed recently. He has failed to complete six innings in any of his second-half starts and has reached the five-inning mark thrice. Senga has posted a 6.56 ERA and a 1.710 WHIP over 35.2 innings, striking out 35 batters with 22 walks. 

The Mets are already taking one step with Senga. Pitching prospect Brandon Sproat will be called up to the majors and make his major league debut on Sunday, taking Senga’s spot in the rotation. Although Sproat is not guaranteed anything beyond Sunday’s appearance, Will Sammon of The Athletic reported that the Mets are considering sending Senga to the minors for a reset.

However, the Mets could find another role for Senga. The back of the bullpen has been a mess despite the Mets adding relievers at the trade deadline. Reliever Ryan Helsley has been particularly putrid, posting an 11.45 ERA and a 2.455 WHIP in his 11 innings, with his -1.4 bWAR the worst of anyone on the Mets roster.

Senga has been at his best before he surpasses the 50-pitch threshold. He has allowed a .217/.295/.388 batting line over 271 plate appearances. Senga has also held opponents to a .230/.303/.393 batting line the first time through a lineup. While Senga may not be an option as a setup man, he could be a solid multi-inning reliever, allowing him to remain relatively stretched out for a potential return to the rotation while allowing him to get back on track.

The New York Mets have several problems on their hands. Moving Senga to the bullpen could be part of a solution.