Kenley Jansen has been one of the constants on the Los Angeles Dodgers over the past decade. The former All Star has been a mainstay in the back of the bullpen, initially serving as a setup man before taking over the closer role for in the 2012 season. While there have been some ups and downs in recent years, Jansen has generally been a solid option in the ninth inning.
Friday was another example of his steadiness as a closer. He recorded the final four outs in the Dodgers’ 8-6 victory over the Brewers, notching his 350th career save in the process.
Los Angeles Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen joins exclusive company
With that save, Jansen became the 13th pitcher in major league history to reach the 350 save plateau. He is also the second active pitcher to get there, joining Craig Kimbrel amongst current closers with that many saves.
That milestone highlights what has been a resurgent season for Jansen. He has posted a 2.22 ERA and a 1.043 WHiP over his 69 innings, striking out 86 batters with 36 walks. His 38 saves are tied with Mark Melancon for the most in the majors this season as he continues to hold off Father Time.
Having Jansen performing at this level is a welcome sight for the Dodgers. He had not quite been the same pitcher in recent years, as he had been getting hit harder while his command had begun to slip. Although his 4.7 BB/9 rate is his worst since his rookie season in 2010, those issues have been mitigated by a 4.6 H/9 rate while he has allowed just four homers all season.
Given his performance this year, it would not be a surprise if he continues climbing that list. Jansen is just eight saves behind Troy Percival for 12th all time, and could become the seventh or eighth pitcher to reach the 400 save mark, depending on Kimbrel’s role going forward.
Kenley Jansen notched his 350th career save on Friday night. The Los Angeles Dodgers closer is not done moving up the leaderboard.