Overview
- Senga was removed from the starting rotation after giving up seven runs and walking five batters in 3 2/3 innings in a loss to the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday.
- Mendoza announced the bullpen assignment on Wednesday before a Mets-Cubs doubleheader and described roles that could include multi-inning outings or high-leverage appearances.
- The move follows a poor stretch since a more than seven-week absence for lumbar spine inflammation, with Senga 0-2 and a 12.91 ERA since returning.
- Senga’s season numbers are sharply down from previous years, with a 10.08 ERA across seven starts, and he had never appeared in relief during his four seasons with the Mets.
- The change is part of a broader effort to shore up a starting staff that ranks near the bottom of MLB in ERA and to preserve Senga’s effectiveness by limiting his exposure in shorter stints.