Mets Facing Decision After Unfortunate News

The New York Mets have not performed up to expectations this year, entering Tuesday with a 29-36 record. However, they are beginning to turn their season around and not all hope is lost, especially if the team starts to get healthier.

While superstar shortstop Francisco Lindor's absence has been felt, the pitching staff is in clear need of reinforcements. The hope was that they would come in the form of Kodai Senga.

Even though Senga struggled in his five appearances this year, he still owns a 3.39 ERA in 57 career starts in MLB along with 343 strikeouts in 305 innings, so he could be a huge boost. Not to mention the Mets are still paying him $15 million a year.

The 33-year-old Japanese right-hander is currently on the 15-day injured list due to lumbar spine inflammation suffered back in April. He has been on a rehab assignment looking to return by the end of June.

Unfortunately, he has hit a minor setback and will not make his scheduled appearance in the minor leagues Tuesday. "Kodai Senga will not make his scheduled start with Double-A Binghamton today because of ulnar nerve irritation, per the Mets," reported Will Sammon of The Athletic.

With Senga's return now in jeopardy, the Mets have a decision to make. They need another starter and it is unclear who will fit.

Kodai Senga will not make his scheduled start with Double-A Binghamton today because of ulnar nerve irritation, per the Mets.

— Will Sammon (@WillSammon) June 9, 2026

The team has a couple of internal options. Trading for an arm is possible, but given where they sit in the standings, that seems unlikely.

They could elect to bring Jonah Tong back up from Triple-A if Senga takes longer than anticipated. The 22-year-old prospect likely still needs time to develop, but in three games out of the bullpen this year he posted a 3.60 ERA.

Another option is bringing David Peterson back into the mix. Peterson was demoted to the bullpen in May, but was effective in his last relief outing against the Miami Marlins, tossing four scoreless innings and allowing just one hit. He is also fully rested, having made zero appearances so far this month. However New York decides to handle it, the rotation situation needs a resolution soon.

Related: Mets Make Pitching Decision After Loss to Padres

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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 3:21 PM.