Mets' Kodai Senga showing signs of past form with strong spring outing

The right-hander fired three perfect innings in the Mets' 1-0 exhibition loss to the Marlins on Friday, finishing with five strikeouts and departing after 38 pitches.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:52am

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Kodai Senga, the Mets' right-handed pitcher, had a strong performance in his second Grapefruit League start, throwing three perfect innings with five strikeouts against the Marlins. Senga, who struggled in the second half of last season, showed signs of returning to his early-season form, averaging 96.5 mph with his four-seam fastball and topping out at 98.6 mph.

Why it matters

Senga's strong spring outing is a positive sign for the Mets, as they look to have the right-hander regain his early-season form from last year. The team is hoping Senga can be a key part of their starting rotation this season, and his performance in this game suggests he may be on the right track.

The details

In the Mets' 1-0 exhibition loss to the Marlins, Senga threw 38 pitches over three perfect innings, striking out five batters. He said he threw an additional 30 pitches in the bullpen after leaving the game. Senga had a strong first half of the 2025 season, posting a 1.39 ERA, before struggling in the second half and being sent to the minors in September.

  • Senga's second Grapefruit League start took place on March 13, 2026.
  • Senga had a 1.39 ERA in the first half of the 2025 season.

The players

Kodai Senga

A right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets who had a strong first half of the 2025 season before struggling in the second half.

David Stearns

The president of baseball operations for the New York Mets.

Francisco Lindor

The shortstop for the New York Mets who is recovering from left hamate bone surgery.

Clay Holmes

A right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets who departed Team USA in the World Baseball Classic to focus on his spring training progression.

Tyrone Taylor

A player for the New York Mets who plans to change his uniform number from 15, which is being retired by the team for Carlos Beltrán.

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What they’re saying

“I am healthy and I think that is the most important thing.”

— Kodai Senga

“It was a tough decision I had to make, but it was the right one.”

— Clay Holmes

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Kodai Senga's strong spring outing is an encouraging sign for the Mets, as they hope the right-hander can regain the form he showed in the first half of the 2025 season and become a key part of their starting rotation this year.