MLB: Kodai Senga says relief pitching easier to prepare for after earning second save

Kodai Senga is finding his stride in a new role for the New York Mets. The Japanese pitcher, who moved to the bullpen mid-season, secured his second Major League Baseball save on Tuesday during a game against the Washington Nationals.

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Knowing I have to go up in the latter part of the game, it's easier for me to prepare.

Senga entered the game in the bottom of the ninth inning with the Mets leading 4-1. Despite allowing a single and hitting a batter to load the bases with two outs, he ultimately struck out the final batter, Abimelec Ortiz, to end the game. This successful outing marked his second career save in MLB.

Following the game, Senga expressed his preference for the relief pitcher role, noting that knowing he would be called upon later in the game allows him to prepare more effectively. Acting manager Andy Green confirmed that Senga will continue to have opportunities to close out games.

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Kodai Senga will continue to have opportunities to close out games.

Adding a unique touch to his appearance, Senga used Michael Jackson's "Beat It" as his walk-up music. He explained his choice by saying he found the song appealing upon first hearing it and would continue using it as long as his teammates enjoyed it.

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The first time I heard 'Beat It,' I thought it was good. If the team likes it, I'll keep using it.