Kodai Senga rebuilding value with Mets after rough stretch

The New York Mets were reportedly desperate to trade pitcher Kodai Senga during the 2025-26 offseason.

The problem is that Senga may have become one of the most untradeable players in the majors ahead of the 2026 MLB trade deadline. He had struggled during his first 13 outings of the season, posting an 8.66 ERA and a 1.769 WHIP over his 44.2 innings, striking out 53 batters with 32 walks. Senga had missed approximately six weeks due to lumbar spine inflammation and ulnar nerve inflammation in his right arm, adding to the difficult start to his season.

The trajectory of Senga's season changed after the trade deadline. He was removed from the rotation and quickly emerged as a high-leverage reliever, taking over as the Mets closer when Devin Williams landed on the IL. Senga has recorded eight saves while posting a 3.78 ERA and a 1.320 WHIP over his 16.2 innings since Aug. 4, striking out 22 batters with nine walks. Those numbers are skewed by a rough outing on Sunday when he allowed three runs on two hits and three walks while recording one out.

Kodai Senga reestablishing value for New York Mets

Senga's strong performance as the Mets closer could make him an interesting player to watch during the offseason. He is due $15 million for 2027 and has a team option for another $15 million in 2028. Senga's success as the Mets closer, coupled with his experience as a reliever during his time in Nippon Professional Baseball, could make him an intriguing option for a team looking to solidify the ninth inning.

Likewise, Senga has reestablished his value for the Mets. He could potentially serve as a setup man for Williams in 2027 or as a multi-inning fireman where his ghost fork would play up. The Mets are likely to look to contend next year, and Senga could be a key part of those plans.