Kodai Senga's First Career Save Ball Returned by Braves Fan Who Drove Over an Hour

New York Mets Japanese pitcher Kodai Senga notched his first career save yesterday, yet the memorabilia-worthy ball was inadvertently thrown into the crowd by teammate and rookie outfielder Carson Benge. Fortunately, Atlanta Braves fan River Karr, who picked up the ball, agreed to drive over an hour to return it after learning Senga wanted it. Senga personally thanked him today.

Senga was moved to the bullpen this season due to poor performance, but he has recently pitched three consecutive scoreless relief innings, including yesterday's road game against the Braves where he earned his first career save. On the final play of the game, Mauricio Dubon flied out to right field. As Senga gestured to catcher Francisco Alvarez to retrieve the ball, right fielder Benge casually tossed it into the stands, leaving Senga with a wry smile.

After the game, Senga said he had wanted to keep the ball as a souvenir: "During the game, or while you're still active, you don't pay much attention to those firsts. But after you retire years later, I think it becomes more meaningful, so I wanted that ball."

The incident sparked discussions online, and it was noticed by River Karr's uncle, Mets fan Richard Mikulka, who posted on social media that he knew who had the ball. Mets team officials then contacted the family, and eventually Karr agreed to return the ball, even though it meant driving over an hour to get to the Braves' home stadium.

Karr, a Braves fan, along with his family and Mikulka's family, both Mets fans, came to the ballpark today and personally handed the ball back to Senga. Senga signed autographs and took photos with them. The "culprit" Benge also showed up, signing for all of them, bringing a perfect end to the incident.