According to MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo, Kodai Senga of the New York Mets was diagnosed with a moderate strain in his right posterior capsule following an MRI on February 22. DiComo reported that he underwent a PRP injection for the injury and was subsequently sidelined. On March 21, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provided a positive update on Senga’s condition and expected timeline for his return.
Mendoza informed reporters, as per SNY, that the inflammation has subsided and Senga has been given clearance by doctors. Now, the focus shifts to internal assessments to ensure he meets the necessary criteria, including passing power tests and demonstrating shoulder strength, before commencing a throwing regimen, which is anticipated to begin within the next week.
Last offseason, Senga secured a lucrative five-year, $75 million deal with the Mets. Prior to his injury, he boasted a solid record of 12 wins and 7 losses with an impressive 2.96 ERA across 29 starts.
Mets Plan Moving Forward
“I’m feeling great, I’m feeling prepared,” Senga expressed through an interpreter, as reported by DiComo.
Despite his sense of readiness, Senga won’t be available for opening day against the Milwaukee Brewers on March 28.
“Senga anticipates starting catch within the next week, pending clearance from internal assessments. However, he cannot definitively estimate the duration of his progression to full readiness, typical of spring training,” DiComo explained.
The Mets designated Jose Quintana as their opening day starter on March 13. Quintana, a veteran since 2012, joined the Mets in 2023, where he posted a 3-6 record with a 3.57 ERA across 13 starts. In 2023 spring training, he underwent rib surgery, delaying his debut until July. Following a healthy offseason, he’s set to start on opening day.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity,” Quintana remarked, as quoted by DiComo. “Hopefully, Senga returns swiftly and in good health, contributing to what I hope will be a fantastic season for everyone. As for me, words can’t express my excitement.”
Quintana’s last opening day start dates back to 2017 with the Chicago White Sox, where he pitched 5.1 innings and conceded 6 runs against the Detroit Tigers.
Senga is a Key Piece for the Mets
In 2023, Senga emerged as the Mets’ most frequent starter, outpacing all other pitchers on the team. His impressive average of 10.93 strikeouts per nine innings ranked him fifth among all pitchers in the majors. Additionally, he held the fourth-best record in hits allowed per nine innings at 6.8. Despite his absence being a significant setback for the Mets, the team expresses confidence in Jose Quintana’s abilities to hold the fort during Senga’s recovery.
Speaking on Quintana, Mendoza noted his extensive experience in the league, competitive spirit, and adeptness in pitching, indicating the team’s satisfaction with his performance during Senga’s absence. The Mets are optimistic about Senga’s rehabilitation progress. Although he is anticipated to miss the entirety of April, a clearer timeline for his return will materialize once he commences his throwing regimen.
According to SNY’s Danny Abrino, if Senga initiates his throwing routine as anticipated within the next week and requires approximately six weeks to regain full form before returning to professional games, a comeback in May seems plausible.
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