The Los Angeles Dodgers revamped their bullpen over the offseason, adding the likes of former Oakland Athletics closer Blake Treinen and Minnesota Twins prospect Brusdar Graterol to a group that already included Kenley Jansen, Pedro Baez and Joe Kelly.
The unit could very well wind up being one of the best in baseball this year, but that will likely depend on Jansen returning to form after an inconsistent 2019 campaign.
The right-hander is coming off arguably his worst statistical season in the big leagues, posting a 3.71 ERA, 3.48 FIP and 1.06 WHIP with 80 strikeouts and 16 walks in 63 innings across (62 appearances). He also blew a career-high eight save attempts, converting only 33 of 41 opportunities.
Looking to get back on track, Jansen visited Driveline Baseball over the winter in effort of refining his mechanics and rediscovering some of the velocity he lost on his cutter and fastball a year ago.
As Cactus League play continues on, Jansen has noticed the progress he is making and can’t wait for the 2020 season to begin, as seen on SportsNet LA:
“Every time my legs are going in the right direction and my body is in the right direction toward home plate, the ball is going to have that jump again. I’m getting consistent with it and I feel great. … I feel so much better. Every thing is synced up so much better this year and I’m ready. This is going to be a fun year and I’m looking forward to it.”
Jansen’s velocity has increased this spring, consistently reaching the 92-93 mph in outings with his fastball maxing out at 94 mph. He also noted there being more movement on his cutter when compared to last season.
The early results in Spring Training mirror Jansen’s optimism as Opening Day inches closer. The all-time Dodgers saves leader tossed four consecutive scoreless outings to begin Cactus League play.
In five overall appearances, Jansen has allowed only one run on three hits with 10 strikeouts and no walks. He made it a priority this spring to appear in more games than last year in order to avoid a slow start.
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