Mets tentatively line up best pitching for key Atlanta series — but Kodai Senga is still in play

The Mets have shifted their rotation to line up their top three starters for a key series against the Atlanta Braves, but the team still considers Kodai Senga a possibility to start in that series, too.

The Mets announced on Thursday that David Peterson will start this Sunday in Philadelphia. Luis Severino, Peterson and Sean Manaea are now lined up to pitch in the series in Atlanta from Sept. 24-26 that could determine which team makes the playoffs. Severino would also then be set to start the regular season finale in Milwaukee on Sept. 29.

But Senga is available to come off the injured list on Sept. 25, and is progressing as well from his calf injury as he was last week, when we reported that the Mets are increasingly optimistic that he will pitch this year.

In large part because Senga is accustomed to a starter’s routine, the organization does not view him as a bullpen option.

If Senga agrees that he is ready to return, he would not be fully stretched out. He could contribute a shortened outing and be followed by a bulk pitcher like Jose Quintana (pairing a lefty with a righty is ideal in a piggybacking situation). The Mets consider Senga a possibility for the same role in the postseason.

If the team does not use Senga in Atlanta, they could start him in Milwaukee instead. The organization is still working through the various scenarios.