Mets trades to replace Kodai Senga: 1 emergency transplant, 1 tourniquet, 1 Band-Aid

Band-Aid: Trade for Michael Lorenzen

It seems like a lot of the pitchers who’ll be on the move in the next few days were free agents this past winter. Yet another, Michael Lorenzen, feels like more of a Band-Aid than anything else. He’s having a good year and yet the acquisition of him onto the Mets roster wouldn’t feel quite the same as pitchers on the level of Flaherty or Fedde.

Lorenzen got obliterated on Saturday against the Toronto Blue Jays while failing to get through the first inning. He hasn’t been too sharp of late. His steady 3.87 ERA is ticking upward. It’s at 6.32 in July after 4 starts. Based on what we saw happen last year when he went from the Detroit Tigers to the Philadelphia Phillies, there should be some concern about a second-half breakdown. Lorenzen pitched a no-hitter for the Phillies then looked cooked and was eventually moved into the bullpen.

The Mets’ wound requires more than a Band-Aid right now. Without a significant starting pitcher addition to the roster, their chances in the playoffs are thin. Over the last week or so the Mets have piled up wins but not often because of the starting pitching. We’re fortunate to get 5 out of Sean Manaea.

Not all injuries should be treated the same. Losing Senga, who was supposed to be the second-half savior/morale boost/well-rested ace, requires a larger piece of medical equipment than an adhesive bandage.