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New York Mets star pitcher Kodai Senga was given the opportunity to take part in the All-Star game at the last minute. This Japanese Starting pitcher was taken as an injury replacement for the National League All-Star team. But the Mets ace was unable to play his part in the big game, citing his focus on something else while he is looking to make the most of the upcoming opportunities.

It is to be noted that the Mets did not have a good start to the season. While Senga has been doing decent for the Buck Showalter-led team, the Mets may need him even more after the All-Star break. Because as per the current scenario, the Mets are far from clinching a postseason berth. And keeping this in mind, Senga knows what damage he can do to other teams from the mound. Here is what he said on pitching in the All-Star Game:

Kodai Senga Snubs to Pitch in the All-Star Game to Focus on Upcoming Opportunities

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This Japanese pitcher was drafted by the Mets during the offseason for $75 million over five years. This young talent had a fantastic rookie season and hence was called as a last-minute backup for Marcus Stroman, the former Mets star. Prior to his appearance in the game, when he was asked if he wanted to pitch, he replied, Half-half,” with a smile on his face. SNY shared a post on their Twitter with the caption “Kodai Senga says he’s “focused on the season” after not pitching in the All-Star Game.” Which simply means he wants to focus on the rest of the season.

When he appeared in the game, he did not take the opportunity to pitch. Later on, when he was asked why he did not pitch, Senga replied, “A big goal of mine was to stay in the rotation throughout the whole entire year without an injury. That’s still my goal and that’s what I’m striving for. I’m focused on the season.” This statement is a testament to his dedication and focus, and it also underlines the fact that this Japanese pitcher is looking to make it big for the rest of the season.

Kodai Senga’s Future Commitments and the Impressive Stats

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Though he did not pitch in the esteemed All-Star game, his statements are pretty straightforward. He is focused on the future and is looking to prioritize the rest of the season. Senga threw the season’s highest inning and 107 pitches against the Diamondbacks before the break in July.

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In his rookie season, Senga has a record of 7-5 with an ERA of 3.31, a 1.28 WHIP, and 113 strikeouts in a total of 89.2 innings in the first half. He has averaged under six innings per game in the first 16 big league appearances. He ranks first with an opposing average of.204 and has ranked second in hits per nine innings. The Mets ace is also looking to lengthen his appearances in the second half of the season so as to capitalize for the rest of the season.

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His dedication to staying injury-free and his desire to make a significant impact in the remaining games showcase his determination to excel as a player so that he does justice to his selection.

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