Mets Ace Kodai Senga Suffers Season-Ending Calf Injury in Return to Mound

New York Mets ace Kodai Senga's highly anticipated return to the mound was cut short after he suffered a high calf sprain that will likely sideline him for the remainder of the 2024 season.

New York Mets fans erupted in cheers as ace Kodai Senga made his highly anticipated return to the mound at Citi Field on Friday night against the Atlanta Braves. However, their joy was short-lived as Senga suffered a high calf sprain in the top of the sixth inning, effectively ending his season.

The injury occurred as Senga attempted to avoid a pop-up infield fly ball. His first step triggered immediate pain, leading him to grab his left calf in agony. Manager Carlos Mendoza placed Senga on the 15-day injured list and admitted that it was "fair to say" he would not return during the regular season.

Mets Ace Kodai Senga Suffers Season-Ending Calf Injury in Return to Mound

Despite the setback, Mendoza noted that Senga's potential return in the postseason was not entirely ruled out. "If we get to see him pitch, that means we're in a good position, right?" Mendoza said, according to ESPN.

Senga's injury is a significant blow to the Mets, who have surged into playoff contention after a slow start to the season. The 31-year-old right-hander had been dealing with a right posterior shoulder capsule strain that kept him out of action for the entire first half.

Mets Ace Kodai Senga Suffers Season-Ending Calf Injury in Return to Mound

In his first start of the season, Senga showcased his impressive skills, touching 98 mph with his fastball and executing his signature forkball with its characteristic late break. He finished his outing with two earned runs allowed on two hits and one walk while striking out nine batters over 5⅓ innings.

The Mets rallied to an 8-4 victory, thanks in part to a seven-run third inning that featured three home runs off Braves starter Charlie Morton. However, Mendoza acknowledged that Senga's absence would be a "huge blow" to the team.

Mets Ace Kodai Senga Suffers Season-Ending Calf Injury in Return to Mound

With Senga out, the Mets will rely on Jose Quintana, Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and David Peterson to anchor the starting rotation. Mendoza may also consider adding a starter to the rotation before the MLB trade deadline on July 30.

The Mets' bullpen, which has the highest ERA in the league since May 1, could also see some reinforcements. Ryne Stanek, recently acquired from the Seattle Mariners, was activated on Saturday, and Tylor Megill was called up from Triple-A to potentially take Senga's spot in the rotation.

As the Mets look to solidify their playoff hopes, they will need their bats, which have been on a tear during their recent win streak, to remain consistent heading into October.