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Mets closer Devin Williams injured; Kodai Senga eyed for potential role

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • New York Mets closer Devin Williams was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder strain.
  • The team is analyzing potential replacements, with Japanese pitcher Kodai Senga being considered for the closer role.
  • Senga, previously a starter, has shown promise in relief appearances, including a recent 100.3 mph fastball.

The New York Mets' closer, Devin Williams, has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right shoulder strain, creating a void at the back of the bullpen. Williams, who signed a three-year, $51 million contract after last season, had recorded 16 saves in 19 opportunities this year. His absence leaves the team scrambling to find a reliable arm to close out games.

While the Mets have recalled Jonathan Pintaro to fill the immediate roster spot, interim manager Andy Green expressed optimism about Williams' potential return this season. However, MLB.com's analysis suggests that with the Mets largely out of playoff contention and having traded away several key bullpen pieces like Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, Huascar Brazobán, and A.J. Minter before the trade deadline, the team might explore internal options.

I know he wants to come back to help the team before the end of the year, and I understand he still wants to get on the mound and close out wins.

— Andy GreenThe interim manager's comments on Devin Williams' desire to return from injury.

One intriguing possibility highlighted by MLB.com is Kodai Senga. The Japanese pitcher, who spent his first three seasons as a starter, has been hampered by injuries. He has recently transitioned to a relief role, showcasing impressive velocity, including a career-best 100.3 mph fastball in a recent outing, coupled with his signature "ghost fork" splitter. This combination could provide the necessary late-inning dominance.

Green acknowledged Senga's strong performances in relief, stating, "If a player shows dominance in a role, you certainly want to give them an opportunity in a significant spot." However, he cautioned against immediate expectations of a closer role, emphasizing that players need to earn such positions through performance rather than being handed them. Senga's current season statistics show a 8.29 ERA in 46.2 innings over 15 appearances (8 starts), but his ERA as a reliever stands at 5.40 over 15 innings.

If a player shows dominance in a role, you certainly want to give them an opportunity in a significant spot.

— Andy GreenThe interim manager on potentially giving Kodai Senga a more prominent role in the bullpen.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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