The New York Mets’ star pitcher, Kodai Senga, is all smiles since his return to the mound! Senga came off an injury that he suffered during the camp last year. Kodai Senga has been throwing up to 96 mph during live batting practice, which seems pretty amazing, according to MLB insider Anthony DiComo.

Before moving on to further discussions, let’s have a look at how the Japanese pitcher performed. Senga went 13-7 with a 2.99 ERA and 211 strikeouts throughout the 2024 season; however, he had to leave the camp early due to a shoulder strain, which prevented him from pitching for the Mets. But his problems didn’t end, as he again strained his left calf, which sidelined him until the postseason. Quite problematic, right?

Senga’s return from the injury surprises DiComo

Kodai Senga has been throwing fastballs at 96 mph speed consistently since his return to the mound. Senga spent most of his 2024 season out of the game due to a shoulder injury and a strain in his calf, which set sky-high expectations while making his return in 2025. On February 16, Mets’ insider Anthony DiComo shared on his X handle, “Kodai Senga was up to 96 mph during an inning of live batting practice this afternoon.”

DiComo also mentioned Mets’ skipper Carlos Mendoza, who called Senga ‘effortless,‘ praising him for his smooth moves and better control, which he considers a major development for the Mets.  

Mets’ manager Carlos Mendoza also mentioned him facing the hitters, which is definitely a good sign, given that Senga struggled in the playoffs, where he posted a 12.60 ERA, which hasn’t been something great for a player of his calibre. However, the Mets are hopeful of his comeback, as we all can see glimpses of his prowess during practice sessions.

However, given that he is yet to make a full recovery, what’s next for him and the Mets?

The Mets looking to go all in against their arch rival

While the good news is that the New York Mets’ Kodai Senga has started throwing fastballs at a good speed, the Mets have also acquired superstar outfielder Juan Soto. Soto’s impressive 2024 season boasts an average of.288 with 166 hits, 109 RBIs, 41 home runs, and 128 runs scored across the 157 games he played for the Yankees.

Now, Soto’s addition could improve the offensive production for the Mets, while Kodai Senga’s return to the mound would improve their pitching performance too. But that’s not all!

The resurgence of Kodai Senga as a pitcher promises a whole lot for the Mets, and with Juan Soto’s acquisition, the Mets look like a powerhouse to reckon with. Senga’s return is not only crucial for improving the pitching rotation stability but also for producing fastballs that could make it difficult for the hitters. However, despite the impressive signs shown in the practice sessions since his return to the mound, it cannot be ignored that Senga grappled with some major issues relating to control, which has been reflected in his wild pitches and higher walk count.

So, do you think with Kodai Senga’s return to the mound and Juan Soto’s arrival, a legendary showdown awaits against the Mets’ archrival, the New York Yankees? Let us know in the comments section below.