As May continues to the Metsmanager Carlos Mendoza gave some updates on two of his pitchers: Kodai Senga It is David Peterson...
Mets going slow with Senga
Senga continues to throw bullpens in hopes of mastering his mechanics before rehab begins in the minors.
Mendoza said after Friday’s loss to the Braves that he felt Senga “wasn’t there yet” and laid out his statement before Saturday’s game and mentioned Senga’s displeasure with his mechanics.
“He’s very meticulous in the way he goes about his business and the way the ball leaves his hand,” Mendoza said of Senga. “I feel like he’s still looking for that. I wouldn’t be surprised if he had to throw a few more bullpens before we put in a live BP setup or go down and face real competition in the minor leagues.”
Mendoza said Senga will play today and they will see how he feels, but admitted he is still learning how his ace works on a day-to-day basis. But the first-year captain has made it clear that they are taking it slow with Senga.
“This is a guy who knows himself better than anyone and we just need to keep playing slow and give him the time he needs,” Mendoza said. “If he needs two more days to throw an extra bullpen, so be it.”
Senga is not eligible to return from the 60-day IL until May 27.
David Peterson is on track to return in June/July
As for Peterson, Mendoza is optimistic about the left-hander’s progress following offseason hip surgery. He confirmed that Peterson’s next rehab start will be Tuesday with Binghamton and that everything is moving in the right direction.
“He’s feeling good,” Mendoza said. “Everything is trending in the right direction.”
Mendoza was asked if Peterson is still on track to return in June or July and the Mets manager indicated yes. Based on his consistent workload of 65-70 pitches, Peterson is “close” according to Mendoza.
In three starts as the Mets’ single-A affiliate, Peterson gave up just two hits and one walk in 8.2 scoreless innings.
