Kodai Senga Is Best Fit to Take Over for Devin Williams in Mets Closer Spot

With Devin Williams sidelined, the Mets may have found an unlikely solution to their ninth-inning problem in Kodai Senga.

Mets pitcher Kodai Senga (34) smiles on the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Devin Williams has had a rough go in New York City, going from the Bronx to Queens and still failing to find a rhythm. Now, his 2026 season will be paused due to a stint on the 15-day IL, with the New York Mets officially placing him on the sidelines with a right shoulder strain. 

"We don't think this is long-term serious for him," manager Andy Green told reporters before Monday's game when asked about the severity of Williams's injury (h/t SNY Mets). 

Pat Ragazzo of Athlon Sports reported that the injury is believed to be minor, with the IL move being viewed as precautionary. After signing a three-year, $53 million contract this offseason, it's fair to consider the move a disappointment, with Williams posting a 4.66 ERA in 42 appearances, securing 16 saves with 51 strikeouts.

With an open spot on their roster, the Mets promoted yet again No. 21 prospect Jonathan Pintaro, who's bounced around the organization with several appearances in the majors this season. In those outings, the 28-year-old holds a 4.70 ERA, 16 strikeouts, and a 0.978 WHIP. 

With Williams out, the Mets had to figure something new for their closing position. On Monday, they got creative, putting Kodai Senga in that role.

Why Kodai Senga makes the most sense to be the Mets next closer

Baseball is a game of irony. Just hours after Williams hit the injured list, the Mets found themselves in a crucial spot on Monday night, leading the Braves 8-5 in the 9th inning without a closer. Senga would get his first taste as closer in Monday's win over the Braves, tossing a dominant 1-2-3 9th inning to lock down his first career save.

Senga's fastball would continue touching 100, as he utilized the two-pitch mix to start his outing with a seven-pitch at-bat against Matt Olson, which resulted in a strikeout. The next at-bat would have the same outcome, striking out Michael Harris with the same two-pitch sequence, ending his night with a routine flyout. 

Kodai Senga locks down his first MLB save! pic.twitter.com/9uHxyjocrl

— SNY (@SNYtv) August 11, 2026

Senga would be the perfect player to move into an emergency closer role, especially after officially being moved from starter to high-leverage reliever following his rocky start against the Marlins on July 31.

The 33-year-old has had two outings in his newfound role, tossing two scoreless innings, while striking out two batters and not allowing a hit. The new role also brings something Senga has never seen: triple-digit velocity. Being a reliever means minimal innings, where a pitcher typically throws under 20 pitches, allowing Senga to focus on his fastball velocity while using his patented ghost fork pitch as a putaway option. 

The Mets aren't expected to name a closer in Williams' absence, but it wouldn't be shocking if Senga received ninth-inning reps, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reported after the news.

The Mets won't name a closer in Devin Williams' absence. Kodai Senga may get looks in the ninth, but so should some others.

Of note, the team expects this to be a relatively brief IL stint for Williams.

— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) August 10, 2026

However, the failed starter isn't the only Mets option to close games. Jefry Yan is one of the most popular names known for his egregious celebration after every strikeout, which involves him jumping high in the air.

Through two MLB appearances, Yan hasn't allowed an earned run and has struck out two batters, while being one of the very few lefty relievers in the game to touch triple digits. Another option includes Dedniel Nunez, who returned from the injured list on August 5 after missing an entire year due to Tommy John surgery. 

For now, Senga will likely remain the top option. It makes the most sense, especially because his contract will force him to remain in New York next season, which has a limited bullpen. Williams will likely retain his closing role when he returns, but after trading Luke Weaver, there is no guarantee as to who will serve as the team's setup man. Could it be Senga, or will it be David Stearns' job to search the market yet again? 

Get Mets On SI straight to your inbox: sign up for our free newsletter here.