Kodai Senga's ghost forkball loses its magic as ERA soars above 10; Mets reluctantly shift him to the bullpen.

New York Mets' Japanese pitcher Kodai Senga has been deep in a slump this season, with his ERA exploding to 10.08. With no improvement in his outings, manager Carlos Mendoza formally declared that Senga would be shifted to the bullpen.

Since returning from injury this season, Senga has been unable to find his pitching groove. Across seven starts, he suffered an 0-6 record while his ERA climbed to 10.08. In 27.2 innings, he surrendered 9 home runs, recorded 34 strikeouts, but also walked 22 batters; his lack of command has become his biggest liability.

Kodai Senga's most recent start against the Chicago Cubs proved to be the straw that broke the camel's back. He touched 98-99 mph on his fastball in the first inning, briefly making fans believe they were watching the former ace, but then suddenly unraveled from the second inning, surrendering two home runs, allowing seven runs over just 3.2 innings, along with five walks, ultimately suffering a loss. His once-dreaded "ghost forkball" has lost its sting this season; it no longer drops sharply as before, often hanging in the strike zone where opponents can tee off. His signature pitch has completely lost its effectiveness.

Mets manager Mendoza stated that the team still has faith in his abilities; this decision is not about giving up on him, but rather about having him start from the bullpen. Going forward, depending on game situations, he will be used as a long reliever or in high-leverage innings. "We've all witnessed his talent, and we've seen him still capable of throwing 98-99 mph fastballs. Now we just want to make his role simpler and help him rediscover his confidence."