Mets’ Kodai Senga receives crucial injury update on Thursday

The New York Mets have been without Kodai Senga since April 28 due to lumbar spine inflammation. But now, the right-hander is prepared to take a major step towards making his return from injury.

Senga will begin a rehab assignment with Single-A St. Lucie on Friday, via Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. The Mets will be paying close attention to his progress and will determine their next steps following the righty’s outing.

Before hitting the shelf, Senga struggled mightily during the 2026 season. Over his first five starts, he put up a 9.00 ERA and a 23/13 K/BB ratio. Senga allowed at least two runs in all five of his starts with a high of seven against the Athletics.

Perhaps the back injury played a role in Senga’s rough start. The Mets will at least hope that he comes back a stronger pitcher following his absence. Based on his track record, Senga has proven he can be a valuable piece of the rotation.

Even with his 2026 numbers, the right-hander has posted a 3.39 ERA and a 343/146 K/BB ratio over his four years with the Mets. He was named an All-Star in 2023 and recorded a 3.02 ERA and a 109/55 K/BB ratio over his 22 starts in 2025. As New York tries to get back into the playoff hunt, they’ll at least hope Senga can make an impact in their rotation.

But the first step is simply getting back on the mound. Senga’s journey will begin on Friday, with the Mets paying close attention that he doesn’t suffer any setbacks. New York can’t afford it at this stage of his injury return.