Los Angeles Dodgers: Kenley Jansen is still an effective closer

Los Angeles Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen has developed a reputation for blowing saves over the last couple of years. But he’s still an effective closer.

Kenley Jansen‘s reputation as the Los Angeles Dodgers closer has been sullied by Twitter. Just think about your reaction when you hear his name. Do you think “Mariano Rivera“? I know I don’t. My first reaction is to think of all the times Jansen was on the wrong end of a game winning at bat. Especially after he blew Game Four of the World Series on a Brett Phillips walkoff.

But that thought is unwarranted. Jansen is still one of the best relievers in the game. Sure, he doesn’t blow hitters away like he used to. But he’s become absolutely elite in limiting hard contact.

In 2020, Jansen allowed an average exit velocity of just 82.7 mph. That’s tied for the fourth best average exit velocity in the league. He allowed a 14.0% hard hit rate, also top 1% of the league. His xBA of .190, xSLG of .285, xERA of 2.92 and xwOBA of .255 are all in the top 10% of the league.

Jansen may not rack up strikeouts like he used to. His stuff may not be as electric. But he’s learned how to pitch with the arsenal he still has to keep hitters off balance. In fact, his ability to induce soft contact may make him an even more effective reliever. By getting quick outs on the ground, Jansen can limit his pitch count. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has the luxury of using him more often and for multiple innings.

So yes, Kenley Jansen is still an effective closer. And the numbers say that he’ll continue to be productive going forward. He’ll never be able to blow hitters away again. But his ability to induce soft contact will make him an effective reliever for many years to come. There’s no reason for the Dodgers to search for another long-term closing option just yet.