Is Kenley Jansen The Solution For The Angels' Closing Woes?

Michael

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Post on May 17, 2025

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Is Kenley Jansen the Solution for the Angels' Closing Woes?

The Los Angeles Angels, a team brimming with offensive firepower but historically plagued by inconsistent pitching, entered the 2023 season with a glaring question mark in the bullpen: who would be the closer? After a series of underwhelming performances from various candidates, the Angels made a significant move, signing veteran Kenley Jansen. But is the three-time All-Star the answer to their closing woes? Let's delve into the complexities of this high-stakes gamble.

The Angels' bullpen struggles have been a recurring theme, often undermining even the most potent offensive displays. Last season, the team desperately lacked a reliable late-inning arm, resulting in numerous blown saves and frustrating losses. This inconsistency cast a long shadow over their playoff aspirations. The acquisition of Jansen, a pitcher with a proven track record of success, represents a significant investment in addressing this critical weakness.

Jansen's Track Record: A Closer Look

Kenley Jansen boasts an impressive resume. His career boasts 391 saves, placing him among the all-time greats. For years, he was a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen, known for his devastating cutter and unwavering composure in high-pressure situations. However, his recent performance with the Boston Red Sox in 2022 was less stellar, raising questions about his age and effectiveness. While his 3.38 ERA doesn't tell the full story, a closer look at his underlying metrics reveals inconsistencies that need addressing.

• High walk rate: Jansen's walk rate increased last season, a significant concern for a closer. Controlling the strike zone is paramount in high-leverage situations.
• Home run vulnerability: While his cutter remains a potent weapon, Jansen has shown increased vulnerability to home runs in recent years. This is a particularly critical factor in today's power-hitting MLB landscape.
• Age and Durability: At 35, Jansen is no longer in the prime of his career. Maintaining consistency and avoiding injury will be crucial for his success with the Angels.

Can Jansen Revitalize His Career in Anaheim?

The Angels' front office is betting on Jansen's ability to rediscover his dominant form. A change of scenery and a new pitching coach could provide the catalyst he needs to recapture his past glory. The team's supportive environment, coupled with a renewed focus on pitching development, could significantly impact his performance. Furthermore, the presence of a strong bullpen support system could lessen the pressure on Jansen, allowing him to focus on his strengths.

However, the risks are undeniable. His age and recent struggles are undeniable factors that could hinder his effectiveness. The pressure of expectations in Anaheim, a city yearning for playoff success, could be overwhelming. The success of this gamble largely depends on Jansen's ability to adapt and perform under pressure.

The Verdict: Cautious Optimism

While the acquisition of Kenley Jansen represents a bold move by the Angels, it's not a guaranteed solution. His past success doesn't guarantee future performance. His ability to adapt, remain healthy, and effectively manage pressure will determine whether he can truly solve the Angels' closing woes. Only time will tell if this high-stakes investment will pay off. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring his performance throughout the season. The journey of this veteran closer will certainly be a compelling storyline to follow in the 2023 MLB season. What are your predictions for Kenley Jansen's performance with the Angels? Share your thoughts in the comments below!