Kodai Senga’s pitching struggles in 2024 persist, despite the Mets securing a 12-6 victory over the Giants on Saturday. Since returning from the injured list, Senga has yet to regain the form that once made him a reliable ace for New York, raising concerns about his recovery and overall effectiveness this season.

Performance Details Highlight Increasing Challenges

In Saturday’s game against San Francisco, Senga lasted only four innings, giving up four runs on five hits, walking three, and striking out four. This outing continued a troubling pattern that began when he first re-entered the rotation after his hamstring injury. Over his last three starts, Senga has allowed four home runs and struggled with command, issues that contrast sharply with his strong performance before the injury.

Before being sidelined, Senga maintained an impressive 1.47 ERA. However, after his recent appearances, that number increased significantly to 2.31, even though he was removed early on Saturday for reliever Reed Garrett. While his overall statistics remain solid and still place him in the conversation for National League honors, his recent performances indicate a clear downturn in his dominance on the mound.

Signs of Regression and Their Impact on the Mets’ Rotation

Senga’s early-season success was partly due to his exceptional ability to control pitching with runners in scoring position. Yet, advanced metrics suggested some regression was inevitable, and now those projected declines are visible. His expected pitching figures have worsened, mirroring his actual results on the field, which have dipped below the high standards he set earlier in the year.

The Mets have faced broader issues with starting pitchers struggling to pitch deep into games, making Senga’s recovery even more critical. With the pitching staff under pressure, New York’s chances of maintaining consistent success hinge heavily on whether Senga can resolve his command problems and return to his pre-injury level.

Looking Ahead: The Importance of Senga’s Rebound

Despite the recent setbacks, Senga’s potential to regain his elite form remains a key asset for the Mets. If he can overcome his current mechanical and control issues, he would restore stability to a rotation that has relied on him as a cornerstone. How quickly and effectively he adjusts will likely influence both his personal trajectory and the team’s outlook for the rest of the 2024 season.