Kodai Senga opens up on his how 2024 ‘frustration’ can help Mets win World Series
Q: What has it been like working with pitching coach Jeremy Hefner?
A: Working with Hef has been fantastic. He’s very knowledgeable about the game and about pitching, and he’s able to communicate that in a way that I can understand. He’s always pushing me to be better, and I appreciate that. He’s helped me a lot with my mechanics and my mental approach to the game.
Q: What are your goals for this season?
A: My goal is to help the Mets win a World Series. That’s what I’m here for. I want to do whatever it takes to contribute to the team’s success and bring a championship to New York. Personally, I want to stay healthy and pitch to the best of my ability every time I take the mound.
Q: What do you enjoy doing away from the field?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also like to relax and unwind by watching movies or playing video games. I think it’s important to have a good balance between baseball and personal life, so I try to make time for the things that I enjoy outside of the game.
Q: Any message for Mets fans?
A: I just want to say thank you for all the support. Mets fans are some of the best in the world, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to play for such a passionate fan base. I promise to give my all every time I step on the field and to do everything I can to help bring a championship to New York. Let’s go Mets!
With his determination, focus, and talent, Kodai Senga is poised to make a significant impact for the Mets this season. As he continues to strive for greatness and work towards his goal of winning a World Series, fans can expect to see some incredible performances from this ace on the mound. Stay tuned for more highlights and memorable moments from Kodai Senga as he helps lead the Mets on their journey to championship glory.
I didn’t know if there was going to be enough people to play a game or if there was going to be a team that I could join. But eventually, I stuck with baseball and I’m glad I did because it’s brought me to where I am today.
Q: What do you want to accomplish in your career?
A: I want to win a World Series. I want to be a consistent pitcher, not just having one good year and then falling off. I want to be able to perform at a high level for a long time. I want to be remembered as a successful pitcher who was able to compete at a high level for a long time.
Q: What would you say to young players who are trying to make it to the big leagues?
A: I would say to trust the process. It’s going to be tough, there are going to be ups and downs, but if you believe in yourself and put in the work, you can achieve your dreams. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it, because if you believe in yourself and work hard, anything is possible.
Q: What’s your message to Mets fans?
A: Thank you for all the support. I feel the love and positivity from the fans every time I step on the field, and it means the world to me. I promise to give my all every time I pitch and to do everything I can to help bring a World Series championship to New York. Thank you for believing in me and the team. Let’s go Mets!
Growing up, I found myself drawn to comic books that featured stories about tennis and boxing. The influence of these sports almost led me down a different path, but ultimately, I realized that baseball was where my true passion lay. There were enough peers playing baseball, and I knew that was where I wanted to be.
I started playing third base in elementary school and continued through middle school. If given the opportunity now, I would gladly take on the position again. Playing third base holds a special place in my heart, and I would swing the bat to let Carlos Mendoza know I’m ready.
One of my best baseball moments in Japan was pitching a no-hitter in 2019. The feeling of achieving such a feat is indescribable and something I would love to experience again. In the United States, my best baseball moment was my first outing. It was a memorable experience that solidified my love for the game.
Growing up, my idols were Ichiro Suzuki and Hideki Matsui. Their skills and dedication to the sport inspired me to pursue my own baseball dreams. My family, including my wife and children, are a constant source of motivation for me. Despite being far away from them, they give me power and energy to keep pushing forward.
When it comes to entertainment, I enjoy watching “Young Sheldon” and count Bradley Cooper as one of my favorite actors. Reflecting on my journey, I am most proud of making it to the major leagues from the development leagues in Japan. It’s a rare accomplishment that not many have achieved, and I am grateful for the opportunity.
My ultimate career goal is to win a World Series. That achievement would be the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the sport. As for Mets fans, I hope they remember me for the “ghost fork” and the impact I made during my time with the team. It’s an honor to have something named after me, and if fans remember me as a cool Japanese pitcher, that’s more than enough for me.
