The New York Mets’ starting rotation was a mess last season. At the end of the year, the Mets were relying on three rookies to pitch in important games. Part of the problem was Kodai Senga not returning to form after his injury.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan recently revealed that Senga is “extremely available,” and multiple executives expect him to be traded. However, according to The Athletic’s Will Sammon, Senga prefers not to be traded. Despite seeing his name fly in rumors, he wants to stay in Queens and prove he can still help the team.
“After experiencing an injury, poor performance and a demotion last season, Senga is said to want to reestablish himself as a top starter in the Mets’ rotation,” Sammon wrote on Sunday. “Senga, who made just one start in 2024 because of injuries, feels an obligation to the organization and its fans. Nevertheless, Senga also understands the business.”
Senga was an All-Star as a rookie, pitching to a 2.98 ERA and recording 202 strikeouts in 29 starts. However, in his second season, he dealt with injuries, leading to him making just one regular-season start. This past season, he was one of the best pitchers in baseball through 13 starts.
He had the best ERA in baseball before a hamstring injury, and when he returned, he was not the same. He had a 1.47 ERA before the injury, but in his next 11 starts, he had a 4.73 ERA. He still has three years of club control, and Sammon noted that Senga’s desire to stay in Queens does not change the situation. He has a no-trade clause that allows him to block trades to 10 franchises.
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