In a devastating blow to the New York Mets, right-handed pitcher Kodai Senga is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the regular season due to a left calf strain, according to manager Carlos Mendoza. Senga, who has been placed on the 15-day injured list, suffered a "high-grade" strain and is unlikely to return before the regular season wraps up. However, there is a possibility of his comeback for the postseason, should the Mets make it.

Mendoza acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Senga's recovery, citing the tricky nature of calf injuries. The timeline for his return remains unclear, but it could potentially extend to eight to ten weeks before he is able to pitch at a major league level with a pitch count of 85.

The unfortunate injury occurred during the Mets' 8-4 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Friday. In the sixth inning, Senga injured his calf while running off the mound to provide space for his infielders to field an infield popup. Prior to the injury, Senga had been impressive, limiting the Braves to just two runs on two hits and one walk, while striking out nine batters. His fastball reached a velocity of 98 mph, and his signature forkball induced five swings and misses. Overall, he threw 73 pitches, demonstrating his All-Star caliber.

Despite the setback, the Mets secured their fifth consecutive win, aided by a seven-run third inning. This victory propelled them into the top National League wild-card spot and second place in the NL East, surpassing the struggling Braves. It is a remarkable turnaround for the Mets, considering they were trailing the Braves by 10 games and facing internal challenges just a few months earlier.

Throughout the season, the Mets have navigated without Senga, who suffered a shoulder injury shortly after reporting to spring training. His anticipated return was supposed to bolster a middling starting rotation at the trade deadline. However, his comeback has been marred by setbacks and dissatisfaction with his mechanics. As a result, the Mets have relied on other pitchers to fill the void left by their projected ace.

Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his disappointment at losing Senga for an extended period but emphasized that the team has managed to perform well without him. Mendoza remains hopeful that Senga will be able to contribute in some capacity during the remainder of the year, given the team's progress.

In response to Senga's injury, the Mets made corresponding moves, optioning right-hander Eric Orze to Triple-A Syracuse, calling up righty Tylor Megill, and activating Ryne Stanek, who was acquired in a trade with the Seattle Mariners. The front office, led by owner Steve Cohen, may consider adding a starter before the upcoming trade deadline, although the primary focus has been on addressing their struggling bullpen, which has the highest ERA in the majors since May 1.

With limited elite starting pitchers available in the market and competition from other contenders, the Mets face a challenging task of finding a suitable replacement for Senga. The willingness of owner Steve Cohen to increase payroll could potentially aid in their search for an impact pitcher.

As the regular season progresses, the Mets will undoubtedly miss Senga's contributions, but their recent success has demonstrated their ability to overcome adversity and remain competitive.