The New York Mets may soon find themselves at a crossroads with veteran pitcher Kodai Senga, and owner Steve Cohen could ultimately be forced to make an expensive decision regarding the struggling right-hander’s future.
Once viewed as a key member of the Mets’ rotation, Senga’s role has dramatically changed during the 2026 season. After continued struggles on the mound, the organization has shifted him into a bullpen role, a move that raises significant questions about whether he can successfully adapt to relief work.
The transition is particularly challenging given Senga’s career background as a starting pitcher. Rather than following a regular routine every five days, he will now be expected to remain available on short notice and adjust to the unpredictable demands of bullpen usage. For many pitchers, that change is difficult. For Senga, whose confidence and performance have already come under scrutiny, the challenge may be even greater.
The Mets have already experimented with similar role changes involving other pitchers this season, including Sean Manaea and David Peterson. However, many observers remain skeptical that Senga’s situation will produce a positive outcome.
As concerns continue to mount, the organization appears to have two realistic paths forward, both of which carry financial consequences.
The first option would be a straightforward release. Senga is still owed approximately $15 million this season and another $15 million next year. While that represents a substantial financial commitment for most organizations, it is a figure that billionaire owner Steve Cohen could absorb if the Mets determine that keeping Senga on the roster no longer serves the club’s competitive interests.
Releasing him would free up a roster spot and allow the team to pursue alternatives without continuing to wait for a turnaround that may never arrive.
The second possibility is attempting to move Senga through a trade. While his current value is undoubtedly diminished, there could be clubs willing to take a chance on him if the Mets are prepared to absorb a significant portion of his remaining contract or use him as part of a larger financial exchange.
Such a deal would likely involve another player carrying an undesirable contract. In that scenario, New York could swap one financial burden for another while potentially acquiring a player who better fits the team’s immediate needs.
Several theoretical trade possibilities have been discussed around the league. Players such as shortstop Trevor Story, outfielder Masataka Yoshida, or even veterans from teams looking to restructure their payrolls have been mentioned as potential candidates in salary-balancing deals. However, each scenario presents its own complications and may require New York to take on additional long-term financial obligations.
That creates a dilemma for president of baseball operations David Stearns, who has generally preferred avoiding cumbersome contracts and maintaining payroll flexibility. Acquiring another expensive veteran simply to move Senga may not align with the front office’s long-term strategy.
Despite the uncertainty, the Mets have not yet given up on the possibility that Senga can reinvent himself as a productive reliever or eventually contribute to the rotation again if circumstances change later in the season. The organization appears willing to give him additional opportunities before making a final decision.
Still, time is becoming a factor. If Senga continues to struggle, the pressure to act will only increase.
Ultimately, the situation may come down to ownership’s willingness to spend. Whether the Mets choose to release Senga, absorb salary in a trade, or continue searching for a way to salvage his value, every path leads back to Cohen and his readiness to commit additional resources in pursuit of a solution.
For now, the Mets remain hopeful that Senga can rediscover his effectiveness. But if that turnaround never arrives, Cohen may soon face one of the more costly personnel decisions of the season.
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