The New York Mets signed one of the darlings of the free agency period: Japanese pitcher Kodai Senga.
He didn’t even require a posting fee: the Mets offered him $75 million over five years, and he said yes.
Considering the going fee of other pitchers, this has the potential to go down as a bargain.
Of course, it can also be a disaster, but Senga is already showing good speed in spring training and is already impressing everybody with his “ghost forkball”.
It’s one of multiple pitches he has in his repertoire, but it’s certainly the most unique.
Just look at this gem from the Mets’ camp.
Pete Alonso had his first taste of Kodai Senga’s “ghost forkball” today in live batting practice. He struck out twice, giving Senga big props for the unique pitch.
Senga’s response? Perfect 😂👻 pic.twitter.com/AYIWbmciz6
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 19, 2023
Senga struck out Pete Alonso twice, and the slugger, who hit 40 home runs last season, had some things to say about the ghost forkball.
When asked what shape does it have, he didn’t know how to answer and said “that’s why they call it the ghost ball.”
Reporters in the room, and Alonso himself, started laughing.
When it was his turn to speak with reporters, Senga was told about Alonso’s remarks and also shared a laugh with people present there.
Senga is already winning some fans over, and more will follow when they see him in action.
The guy is just flat-out dominant.
He has a career 2.42 ERA in Japan and posted a 1.89 mark last season there.
He has velocity, he has command, he has a deep arsenal, and he has charisma.
Senga has everything to be one of the most beloved Mets on the 2023 roster.
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Carlos Beltran Is Back Helping Out His Former Team
