Kodai Senga's Impressive Rehab Start in Syracuse Signals Potential Return for Mets

Kodai Senga, the Mets' ace pitcher, has been sidelined due to a high-grade left calf strain, but his recent performance in Syracuse suggests he may be on the verge of a comeback. After missing significant time this season, Senga took a crucial step in his rehabilitation process on Saturday night at NBT Bank Stadium, where he pitched a flawless first inning during the Mets' 10-3 victory over the Charlotte Knights.

In his single inning of work, Senga showcased his skills by striking out two batters and issuing one walk, all while throwing 15 pitches and reaching a maximum velocity of 94.9 mph. This outing marked Senga's first game action since he sustained the calf injury while attempting to field a ball during his return to the mound on July 26. This was after he had already spent months recovering from a posterior capsule strain in his right shoulder.

So far this season, Senga's rehab appearances have outnumbered his Major League outings by a ratio of four to one. However, if his recovery progresses as anticipated, the Mets are considering activating him from the injured list to start as early as Friday in Milwaukee. This potential return could not come at a more critical time, as the Mets are in the thick of the playoff race and need all hands on deck.

While Senga was pitching in Syracuse, the Mets were securing a 6-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, maintaining their two-game lead over the Atlanta Braves for the final National League Wild Card spot. With just one more game against the Phillies before a pivotal three-game series against the Braves, the Mets are aware that their postseason hopes hinge on their performance in the coming days.

Having Senga back on the mound would be a significant boost for the team. His successful outing on Saturday has transformed the possibility of his return into a likely scenario, provided he responds well to his usual five days of rest. Additionally, Mets' No. 3 prospect Drew Gilbert hit a home run for the second consecutive game, and No. 8 prospect Blade Tidwell struck out 10 batters in six innings behind Senga, who was initially slated to pitch up to two innings and 35 pitches. However, due to Syracuse scoring eight runs in the bottom of the first, Senga's return for a second inning was not necessary.

As the Mets gear up for the final stretch of the season, the return of Kodai Senga could prove to be a game-changer in their quest for a playoff spot.