Although the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen has been a focal point of criticism over recent seasons, closer Kenley Jansen has held as the exception to the rule. This season isn’t any different, with Jansen converting on all 11 save opportunities.
In 13 appearances, he owns a 0.68 ERA, 1.20 FIP and 0.60 WHIP over 13.1 innings pitched. Jansen’s saves haven’t been limited to only one inning of work, as he’s recorded one five- and one four-out save.
What’s more, Jansen has 14 strikeouts to just one walk. Despite the importance Jansen has carried for the Dodgers in recent seasons, he’s been left on the outside looking in for All-Star Game and other accolades.
Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw believes Jansen’s consistency and dependability have led to him flying under the radar from a national perspective, according to via Ken Gurnick of MLB.com:
“When you’re really good, people can take you for granted,” Kershaw said. “You expect him to go 1-2-3 and strike out the side. But he’s not an unknown. It’s just a matter of him being so good. What you want from a closer is someone that wants the ball, and Kenley embraces it. He wants to be out there, and that’s huge.”
Jansen has converted 23 straight saves dating back to last season and his performance this season is on par with the best in the game. He currently ranks second on the Dodgers’ all-time saves leader list with 153.
Eric Gagne ranks first with 161 saves. This season is of particular importance for Jansen, who is eligible for free agency this winter. He said during Spring Training he’d yet to hold contract discussions with the Dodgers, and would not do so during the season.
The Dodgers avoided arbitration with Jansen during the offseason by agreeing to a one-year, $10.65 million contract.
