Mets move Kodai Senga from rotation to bullpen

The New York Mets have demoted struggling starting pitcher Kodai Senga to the bullpen, a significant roster move announced by manager Carlos Mendoza on Wednesday. The decision follows a series of poor performances, most recently a start on Tuesday in which Senga surrendered seven runs in just 3 2/3 innings during a 9-6 loss to the Chicago Cubs at Citi Field.

Senga, a 33-year-old right-hander, has an 0-6 record and a 10.08 earned run average over seven starts this season. Since returning earlier this month from a back injury that sidelined him for more than seven weeks, his performance has further declined, with an ERA of 12.91 in two outings. In Tuesday's loss, he gave up three hits, including two home runs, while walking five batters.

Manager Carlos Mendoza explained the move before Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cubs, framing it as a practical adjustment to utilize Senga in a different capacity. Mendoza indicated Senga could serve as a multi-inning reliever or be used in high-leverage situations, depending on the game's needs. He acknowledged the change would require an adjustment for the pitcher, who has made 59 regular-season starts for the Mets since joining the team...