One of the biggest questions for the Los Angeles Dodgers entering the 2021 season was how Kenley Jansen would respond after a disappointing showing in the postseason.
He so far has been able to quell concerns that he can no longer handle the closer role, converting four of five save opportunities thus far. Jansen overall has posted a solid 2.25 ERA, 2.89 FIP and 1.00 WHIP with 10 strikeouts in eight innings (seven games).
Jansen has pitched in back-to-back games only once this season, doing so on April 6-7 against the Oakland Athletics. He tossed a scoreless inning in the first game before blowing a save opportunity the next day.
“We’ll see. I think most pitchers fit in that category,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of potentially avoiding using Jansen in back-to-back appearances going forward.
“There’s certain game situations that with respect to how other guys are being used, you have to still go out there and pitch. It’s not a hard and fast he doesn’t go back-to-back. We’ll evaluate as the season goes.”
Of Jansen’s seven appearances thus far, he has allowed a run in two of them. Unsurprisingly, the right-hander’s pitch count is also higher in games he gives up a run as he tends to labor more on the mound.
Roberts can usually tell right away when Jansen isn’t at his best. “That’s kind of an in-game decision. When you’re talking about a closer or reliever, it’s three pitches, five pitches, 10 pitches,” Roberts said.
“It’s just our eyes. I believe in him. I’ve always trusted him. Right now, I’m expecting him to go out there and be good.”
Barnes sees Jansen more ‘convicted’
Jansen’s latest appearance sealed a 1-0 victory for the Dodgers and series split against the Seattle Mariners. He touched 97 mph and had impressive command and movement that seemed to be the byproduct of receiving extra rest between appearances.
“The last three times I’ve caught Kenley there’s been a lot of conviction behind the throw. He’s coming out and attacking hitter,” Austin Barnes said.
“He’s not letting the little things get to him anymore. If he gets behind, he goes right back at them. It’s not an easy job being a closer. There’s a lot on you, so I’m glad to see him doing so well. … He’s concentrated.
“He’s convicted in himself and got intent behind all his throws. That’s what’s important.”
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