Update: Mets Dynamic Pitcher Set For Regular Season Return After Battling Injuries

Could New York Mets ace Kodai Senga make an unexpected return during the regular season? A recent report suggests that a September comeback might be possible.

The Mets endured a tough start to the season but had a scorching July that propelled them into the heart of the National League Wild Card race. What makes their resurgence even more remarkable is that they achieved it without their ace, Kodai Senga.

The 2023 All-Star has been hampered by injuries throughout the season, but there was optimism for a second-half impact when he returned in late July for a game against the rival Atlanta Braves. However, after pitching five and a third strong innings, he injured his calf while fielding a ball.

Initially, it was hoped that he might return if the team made the postseason. But last week, it was revealed that he would begin throwing from an upright position in the coming days, sparking speculation about a possible earlier return.

Kodai Senga’s 2023 stats: 12-7, 2.98 ERA, 1.220 WHIP, 202 SO, 77 BB, 166.1 IP.

Kodai Senga making New York Mets return during final week of season is possible

It was a significant step forward, and a new rumor has fueled optimism that Senga could return to game action once he’s eligible to come off the injured list on September 25.

According to The Athletic’s Mets reporter Tim Britton, “The Mets think there’s a chance the right-hander could make an appearance in those final five games against Atlanta and Milwaukee.” Despite his lower-body injury, Senga has kept his arm strong by throwing from a seated position and is expected to begin throwing while standing this week. The biggest challenge will be testing his recovery from the calf strain, which remains unproven.

Britton emphasizes that there are still several key hurdles Senga must overcome before making a big league return, but a comeback by the end of September is not out of the question.