PHILADELPHIA -- Kodai Senga will start Game 1 of the National League Division Series for the Mets, manager Carlos Mendoza said Friday, in a dramatic turn for the team's pitching staff.

Senga has not pitched in a Major League game since July 26, when he badly strained his left calf during his 2024 season debut. He had missed the entire first half of the season due to shoulder and triceps injuries. Before departing that game, he allowed two runs in 5 1/3 innings while striking out nine against the Braves.

Senga was the Mets' best pitcher last season, going 12-7 with a 2.98 ERA in 29 starts.

It's unclear how deep into Saturday's game the right-hander will be able to go, but the Mets have depth options behind him in David Peterson and Tylor Megill. Luis Severino will start Game 2 on regular rest.