In what has been a dark and laborious season on the field for the 2023 New York Mets, Kodai Senga shone bright and illuminated Sunday night’s game against the NL East-leading Atlanta Braves.

Right off the bat, the Braves immediately posed a challenge for Senga, who started off rocky. Atlanta would take the lead early with a three-run double by Marcell Ozuna in the opening inning.

From then on, Senga rebounded and dominated on the mound. He effectively neutralized the Braves offense, allowing only two players to reach base over the next five innings. Throughout six innings, he only allowed those early three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven batters.

While the Mets’ offense had only scored four runs in their last three games, they ignited an impressive turnaround, mustering six runs in the sixth, resulting in a 7-3 score and ultimately a 7-6 win. Although the Braves attempted a late comeback, the Mets’ bullpen held steady, securing both the lead and victory for Senga.

Kodai Senga. Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Consistency has become Senga’s hallmark, with a streak of restricting opponents to three or fewer earned runs across nine consecutive starts. This impressive track record contributed to his exceptional 2.98 ERA during this remarkable stretch. For the season, his performance remains solid with a 3.30 ERA and an impressive 149:59 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 122.2 innings.

“I feel strong on the mound, and I think I can get through this season on a high note,” Senga said through a translator after the game. Senga has made 22 starts this year, close to matching his total of 23 (148 innings) in his last season in Japan. A goal for the remainder of the year will be stretching Senga out to get used to a full MLB season while also not overworking him.

Over the past seven games, Senga boasts three wins with an outstanding 2.85 ERA. During this stretch, he pitched 41 innings and delivered 48 strikeouts while allowing 35 hits and 13 runs.

Amid a season that has seen limited cause for celebration, Senga’s successful transition from Japan to the major leagues is undoubtedly a bright spot. He has proven his adaptability and solidified his position as a crucial component of the Mets’ starting rotation for the foreseeable future.