The offseason has been eventful for the Los Angeles Angels as they aim for the playoffs. In November, the team traded for former World Series MVP Jorge Soler and signed catcher Travis D’Arnaud, both of whom, along with a healthy Mike Trout, are expected to significantly enhance the team’s offense.
On Tuesday, the Angels made headlines again with a major acquisition. Jon Heyman of the New York Post and MLB Network broke the news that Kenley Jansen is joining the Angels.
Breaking: Kenley Jansen to the Angels
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 11, 2025
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale confirmed this report, stating that Jansen’s contract is worth $10 million for one year.
He receives a one-year, $10 million deal. https://t.co/rHMXCNEQfT
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 11, 2025
Kenley Jansen began his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers as an undrafted free-agent catcher in 2004, but after facing offensive struggles in the minors, he transitioned to pitching. He made his MLB debut with the Dodgers in July 2010 and became a mainstay in their bullpen for the next decade. Named the team’s closer in 2012, Jansen consistently delivered, recording 25 or more saves each season from 2012 to 2021, except for the shortened 2020 season. Over nine seasons, he tallied 350 saves, the highest in franchise history.
After testing free agency post-2021 season, Jansen signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Braves, where he led MLB with 41 saves in 2022. He then secured a two-year contract with the Boston Red Sox, recording 56 saves and earning his fourth All-Star nod in 2023.
Looking ahead, if the Angels find themselves out of contention by July’s Trade Deadline, Jansen could become an attractive trade asset for competing teams.
