MLB Rumors: 4 Landing Spots For Free Agent Kenley Jansen

Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report has identified potential landing spots for veteran closer Kenley Jansen, focusing on his fit with teams looking to bolster their bullpens. 

At 37, Jansen remains one of the most reliable ninth-inning options in free agency, with a career total of 447 saves and an effective cutter that limited hitters to a .215 average in 2024. 

Despite a quieter market, Rymer points to the Toronto Blue Jays as the most logical destination for Jansen, citing their need for stability in a bullpen that ranked last in rWAR last season. 

"The fit is almost too perfect," Rymer writes, noting Jansen's extensive AL East experience and his ability to provide a dependable late-game presence.

Feel like the off season forgot kenley Jansen exists I never hear his name anywhere

— Layne Morgan (@laynescards) January 13, 2025

While Rymer acknowledges other potential suitors, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and Detroit Tigers, he emphasizes Toronto's urgency to address their bullpen issues. 

Despite offseason additions like Yimi García, Nick Sandlin, and Jeff Hoffman, the Blue Jays lack a proven closer, making Jansen an appealing option as they look to compete in the tough AL East. 

Kenley Jansen's Cutter could be absolutely Unfair. 😳

I included an overlay with his Two Seamer from the same at bat. pic.twitter.com/jcIUeGS7pc

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) December 7, 2024

With his strong track record in high-pressure situations, Rymer believes Jansen could be the stabilizing force the Blue Jays need to strengthen their playoff push.

Photo Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images