Mets Activate Sean Manaea, Kodai Senga to Boost Rotation Amid NL East Chase

Sean Manaea made his long-awaited season debut for the New York Mets on Sunday after missing the first half with an oblique strain and lingering elbow issues, pitching 3 1/3 strong innings with seven strikeouts but ultimately taking the loss in a 3-2 walk-off defeat to the Kansas City Royals. Despite the loss, Manaea's performance was a positive sign for the Mets, who have been plagued by pitching injuries and recently saw ace Kodai Senga return from the injured list as well. The Mets rallied in the ninth to tie the game but were unable to capitalize on opportunities, finishing just 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position. The return of both Manaea and Senga is expected to bolster a rotation that struggled through June and early July, with the Mets dropping to second place in the NL East, 1.5 games behind the Phillies. Manager Carlos Mendoza and players expressed optimism about the boost these arms give the team going into the All-Star break. The Mets now look to benefit from improved pitching depth as they prepare for the second half of the season.