Mets Open to Trading Kodai Senga as Offseason Overhaul Looms

The New York Mets are signaling a willingness to shake up their roster this offseason, and that could include moving one of their top pitchers. Kodai Senga, who posted a 3.02 ERA over 22 starts in 2025, is reportedly available for trade, according to multiple sources. The move would mark a significant change for a team that has been unafraid to spend aggressively to build a championship contender.

Senga’s availability comes after a frustrating end to the 2025 season, when the Mets faltered in the National League East and missed the playoffs, losing the final postseason spot to the Cincinnati Reds. Expectations were high entering the year, especially after the team added free-agent star Juan Soto, aiming to rebound from a 2024 NLCS defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Injuries and inconsistent performances late in the season hindered the Mets’ rotation, with Senga spending part of September in the minor leagues on an assignment before returning to the big-league team. His absence and struggles coincided with New York’s push for a playoff berth, adding pressure to a staff already facing scrutiny.

Now, with 2026 approaching, the Mets appear ready to consider bold moves that could reshape their pitching staff and strengthen the team’s chances of returning to postseason contention.

1. Senga’s Performance and Contract

Kodai Senga has been a key contributor since joining the Mets in 2023, consistently providing quality starts and stability to New York’s rotation. In 2025, he made 22 starts and posted a solid 3.02 ERA, demonstrating reliability when healthy. Yet, injuries and late-season assignments limited his impact during critical playoff-chase games. The pitcher is under contract for two more years, with $28 million guaranteed, a figure that makes him attractive to teams seeking affordable, proven starting pitching. Multiple teams have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring him, recognizing his combination of performance, experience, and reasonable salary. Insiders note that the Mets’ willingness to move Senga is driven by a desire to retool the rotation and maximize flexibility in the offseason. While he remains a high-caliber pitcher, trading him could provide the organization with prospects or complementary players to address other needs. His track record and contract terms make him a rare asset on the market—particularly for clubs looking to add rotation stability without committing excessively long-term.

2. Potential Trade Partners and Strategy

According to MLB insiders, several teams are reportedly exploring the possibility of adding Senga to their rotations this offseason. The Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and San Diego Padres are among the clubs known to be evaluating starting pitching options. Each team could potentially benefit from Senga’s experience and cost-effective contract. New York is weighing the balance between retaining a top starter and acquiring assets that could help the club compete in 2026. Trading Senga could address gaps elsewhere on the roster or provide younger players with opportunities to step into larger roles. The Padres, in particular, are cited as a team for whom Senga’s contract is appealing, offering a short-term but high-quality rotation option that fits a budget-conscious approach. For other potential suitors, his combination of experience, performance, and remaining guaranteed salary presents an intriguing opportunity. Ultimately, the Mets’ strategy appears focused on flexibility and positioning for sustained success, even if it means parting with a proven veteran.

3. Looking Ahead for the Mets

After falling short of expectations in 2025, New York faces an offseason filled with decisions that could define the team’s trajectory. The potential trade of Senga highlights a willingness to make significant moves rather than maintain the status quo. With a talented roster anchored by Juan Soto, the Mets are seeking ways to convert high payroll and talent into a consistent postseason contender. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see which direction the organization takes. Retaining Senga could preserve pitching stability, while trading him might allow the club to add complementary pieces or prospects to strengthen the broader roster. The coming months will be pivotal, as New York looks to learn from a disappointing finish and construct a roster capable of both competing in the National League East and making a deeper postseason run. The decision on Senga could serve as a bellwether for the Mets’ overall offseason approach.