2 Reasons Revealed for Why the Mets-Kenley Jansen Deal Fell Apart

The New York Mets came close to signing veteran closer Kenley Jansen this offseason but ultimately opted for right-hander Ryne Stanek on a one-year, $4.5 million deal.

According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon, the Mets engaged in serious discussions with Jansen’s camp but ran into two big obstacles: his desire to remain a closer and his salary demands.

With Edwin Díaz locked in as the team’s ninth-inning option, Jansen would have been relegated to a setup role, something that didn’t match up with what he's looking for with a new team. At 37 years old and sitting at 447 career saves, he is focused on reaching 500, a milestone that remains a priority as he navigates free agency.

BREAKING:

Recent report by Andy Martino implies the New York Mets signed reliever Ryne Stanek over higher-priced Kenley Jansen, in order to save the appropriate amount of money to bring Pete Alonso back.

Starting to look like the Mets fans are going to get what they want:… pic.twitter.com/rRfmzf3AhI
— John Frascella (Football) (@NFLFrascella) January 29, 2025

Instead of committing significant resources to Jansen, the Mets pivoted to Stanek, a more cost-effective bullpen addition.

SNY’s Andy Martino noted that Stanek’s signing “could keep a bit of wiggle room” for the team as they remain engaged in contract talks with Pete Alonso.

The Mets’ payroll now sits at approximately $297 million, pushing them close to another steep luxury tax penalty. Alonso remains unsigned after rejecting a seven-year, $158 million extension and a more recent three-year, $70 million offer with an opt-out.