closer Kenley Jansen The Boston Red Sox have agreed to a two-year, $32 million contract, sources tell ESPN, boosting a Boston bullpen that ranks among the worst in baseball through the 2022 season.
Jansen, 35, spent 2022 with the Atlanta Braves after dozens of standout seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He led the National League with his 41 saves and 391 career saves ranking second among active players and eighth all-time.
In 64 innings with the Braves, Jansen struck out 85 batters, walked 22 and posted a 3.38 ERA. During his career, Jansen struck out 1,107 strikeouts in 769 innings with a 2.46 ERA and ranks among the most dominant shutouts in history.
Boston has already added to its rules, and signed right Chris Martin to a two-year, $17.5 million deal after a dominant showing with the Dodgers where he struck out 34, walked one and put up a 1.46 ERA.
The 2022 Red Sox bullpen has amassed a 4.59 ERA, fifth-worst in baseball, lost to left-handers Matt will see them To the Philadelphia Phillies via free agency Tuesday. right hand Garrett Whitlockwho has been used on high-impact relief over the last three months of the season, is expected to move into the rotation.
Boston, with Jansen and Martin at right John SchreiberHowever, it could be massive as the team tries to climb out of last place in the American League East.
Much of the Red Sox’ previous postseason effort went to waste, as they lost a number of free agent goals: Zack Evelynleft hand Tyler Andersonleft hand Andrew Heaney and right hand Tommy Canley.
The Red Sox continue to target shortstop Xander BogaertsAccording to sources, the San Diego Padres and others are after him after he opted out of the last three years of his contract. Bogaerts, with whom Jansen played on Team Holland in the World Baseball Classic, is expected to earn a contract close to $200 million when he reaches free agency for the first time in his 10-year career.
With the Jansen deal, the Red Sox currently expect to receive a payroll of approximately $175 million. Sources said they will likely sign a number of free agents as they fill out a roster that currently lacks stopping and starting depth.
The incumbent is closer Tanner Hook He had back surgery in August and the Red Sox are hoping he’ll be ready for spring training.
“Coffee ninja. Web fan. Hipster-friendly beer enthusiast. Professional creator.”