Mets could be getting a key reinforcement back at the perfect time

The New York Mets have been on a roll since McDonald’s Grimace threw the first pitch in June. After a cold start to the season, they’re starting to get their act together. New York is 25-13 since June despite a lack of good arms. The offense has carried them during their hot stretch, but they could use some better pitching.

The Mets have a team-leading 4.23 ERA, which ranks 22nd in MLB, before today’s game against the Miami Marlins. Fans can look forward to the second half of the season as their ace is nearly back.

Kodai Senga, who had a 2.98 ERA and struck out more than 200 batters last season, will throw his final rehab start this week. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza says Senga will throw between 80 and 85 pitches in this rehab start, and the hope is for him to return next week (July 25-28) to face the rival Atlanta Braves.

Not only will Senga provide the Mets with an ace for the first time this season. Not only will it give them a top-tier starter. But it also pushes back the rest of the guys in the rotation. Luis Severino and Sean Manaea have been reliable all season, so now New York has three legitimate starters at the top of the rotation.

Manaea had a 3.46 ERA before his start against Miami tonight. Severino has turned things around after a struggling last season. He currently has a 6-3 record with a 3.78 ERA this season. If rookie Christian Scott gets going, the Mets could have a playoff rotation.

The Mets currently hold the rights to the third wild-card spot in the National League, effective July 19. With Senga returning, New York has a good chance to hold on to that spot for the rest of the season. Offensively, the team is solid. They’re fourth in runs per game this season, but they need the rotation to turn things around. The second-year starter should provide a boost at the perfect time.