Kodai Senga Shines in Bullpen Role After Rotation Struggles

New York Mets pitcher Kodai Senga endured a difficult 2026 campaign as a starter, finishing with a 7.34 ERA and missing six weeks with spine inflammation and ulnar nerve irritation. However, Senga salvaged his season after transitioning to the bullpen, posting a 2.05 ERA and recording eight saves as the team's de facto closer. He surrendered just nine runs over 30.1 relief innings, lowering his season ERA from a high of 10.08.