Mets react swiftly, make immediate roster move after Kodai Senga injury vs. Nationals

Kodai Senga’s latest setback delivered another blow to the New York Mets’ rotation. The right-hander exited Thursday’s 4-3 win over the Washington Nationals after injuring his hamstring while covering first base. Moments later, the team announced a quick roster response—calling up Max Kranick from Triple-A Syracuse.

Senga was hurt in the sixth inning after fielding an off-target throw from Pete Alonso, landing awkwardly while securing the out. The Mets’ ace immediately reached for his hamstring, and manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed after the game that Senga would be placed on the 15-day injured list.

“It’s hard for me to speculate, but obviously we know he’s going to be down,” Mendoza said. “As soon as he goes down like that, he grabs the hamstring — we saw it last year, unfortunately.”

Senga’s injury history raises concerns for Mets

Thursday’s exit marks another injury chapter for Senga, who also missed significant time last season. A shoulder strain sidelined him for months in 2024, and a calf injury delayed his return until the postseason. He made a playoff start in the NLDS, but the recurring nature of lower-body injuries is now a growing concern for the Mets’ front office.

Mendoza noted the team would know more once further evaluations are complete, but offered no timetable. With the Mets already thin on proven arms, the timing compounds pressure on the rotation.

Kranick gets second chance after strong start

In response, New York promoted Kranick, who showed early promise in March and April with a 2.65 ERA before hitting a rough patch and being optioned. The 26-year-old righty offers the Mets a familiar arm and a chance to regain his early-season form.

Kranick’s versatility could be key if the Mets choose to ease Senga back cautiously, especially given his value in October. For now, the team will look to stabilize in Senga’s absence as they prepare for the next stretch of divisional matchups.