Mets' Kodai Senga suffers worst start of career in loss to Athletics

Senga allowed a career-high seven runs on eight hits in just 2.1 innings pitched

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:21am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the pitching motion of Kodai Senga and the batting swings of the Athletics' players, with sharp geometric planes in the Mets' and Athletics' team colors capturing the dynamic action of the game.Kodai Senga's uncharacteristic struggles on the mound against the Athletics expose the unpredictable nature of baseball's elite pitchers.Oakland Today

Mets starting pitcher Kodai Senga had his worst outing as a major leaguer, giving up seven runs on eight hits and two walks in just 2.1 innings against the Oakland Athletics. Senga struggled with his command and velocity, leading to a disastrous third inning where the Athletics scored five runs to take a 4-1 lead. Despite a late comeback attempt by the Mets' offense, they were unable to overcome Senga's poor start and lost 11-6.

Why it matters

Senga has been a key part of the Mets' rotation since joining the team, and this outing represents a significant setback after an impressive spring training and start to the season. The Mets will need Senga to bounce back quickly if they want to maintain their position in the NL East standings.

The details

Senga's lack of control was the main issue, as only 40 of his 72 pitches went for strikes. His fastball velocity was also down, hovering around 93-94 mph compared to the high 90s in his previous outings. The game-changing third inning saw the Athletics score five runs, highlighted by a two-run homer from Tyler Soderstrom. Senga attributed his struggles to a 'slight' mechanical issue, but felt physically fine.

  • Senga made the start on Saturday, April 12, 2026 at Citi Field against the Oakland Athletics.

The players

Kodai Senga

The Mets' starting pitcher who had the worst outing of his major league career, allowing a career-high seven runs in just 2.1 innings pitched.

Carlos Mendoza

The Mets' manager, who acknowledged Senga's lack of command and dip in velocity as the main factors behind his poor performance.

Shea Langeliers

The Athletics' catcher who doubled in the third inning, sparking their five-run rally.

Tyler Soderstrom

The Athletics' first baseman who hit a two-run homer in the third inning to give the A's a 4-1 lead.

Carlos Cortes

The Athletics' outfielder who hit a one-out home run in the third inning to cap off the five-run frame.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest thing is I wasn't able to control many pitches near the strike zone or over the plate.”

— Kodai Senga, Mets Pitcher

“He didn't have much. Starts with fastball command and he just didn't have it. He kept going to that sinker to get back in counts or get a strike, but he didn't have a feel for his pitches... Overall, just getting behind because the command wasn't there.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“Not every outing is going to be smooth sailing. Some outings are going to be tough. Probably going to have, in a long season, stuff like this is going to happen. I'm going to reflect on this the next time I go back out there so that it doesn't happen again or it's better the next time out.”

— Kodai Senga, Mets Pitcher

What’s next

Senga will look to bounce back in his next scheduled start, where he will aim to regain his command and velocity to put the Mets in a better position to win.

The takeaway

This outing highlights the ups and downs that even the best pitchers can experience over the course of a long season. Senga will need to make the necessary adjustments to regain his form and continue being an integral part of the Mets' rotation as they push for a playoff spot.