New York Mets Kodai Senga cites Driveline Technology as his new favorite tool

Kodai Senga has been one of the most dominant pitchers in the Nippon Pro Baseball League over the past decade. Since making his debut for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in 2022, the starter has amassed a record of 87-44 with an ERA of 2.59 and over 1,252 strikeouts.

He was one of the most sought-after free agents when he announced his intention to enter the MLB in 2022. After many suitors tried to claim him, the New York Mets were the ones to sign him to a 5-year deal worth some $75 million.

After reporting to the Mets' spring training facility in Port St. Lucie, Senga was introduced to Driveline Technology. The program is designed to help pitchers improve accuracy, velocity, and movement on their pitches through a variety of indicators.

Although the NPB and Japan are generally seen as global tech hubs, Senga has never used the technology before. Michael Mayer of Metsmerized reported that Senga has been using Driveline to perfect his grip.

"Very interesting to hear Kodai Senga talk about how much he enjoyed working with Driveline. Said that the technology wasn't available in Japan and that Driveline really helped him adjust to the different MLB ball in terms of adjusting his grips." - @ Michael Mayer

The New York Mets now boast one of the most dynamic and highly skilled pitching rotations in the MLB. In addition to Senga, the team lays claim to the two highest-paid pitchers in the world, Max Scherzer and the 2022 Cy Young Award winner, Justin Verlander.

Hopes are high for Senga. At 30, he is in the prime of his career. However, some pundits have outlined long travel schedules and a different playing style as challenges. Although he is not a pitcher, Seiya Suzuki of the Chicago Cubs struggled last year in his first season in the MLB. Suzuki's average fell to .262 after reaching .317 in the NPB the previous year.

"Kodai Senga throwing in Mets camp" - @ Jon Heyman

Kodai Senga looks set to make an epic MLB debut

Under the guidance of some of the best starters in modern history, Senga will have a soft landing in the MLB. Although it is a long season with plenty of opportunities for failure, Senga's NPB record shows that he has the skill set to win with the Mets in 2023.