The Los Angeles Dodgers saw 11 players reach free agency the morning after the World Series concluded, including bullpen stalwarts Kenley Jansen and Corey Knebel, who helped anchor one of the better relief corps in all of baseball this year.
After struggling with inconsistencies over parts of the past two seasons, Jansen enjoyed a bounce-back campaign as he posted a 2.22 ERA, 3.08 FIP and 1.04 WHIP with 38 saves across 69 appearances.
As for Knebel, he missed most of the 2021 season due to to a right lat strain that sidelined him for nearly four months. He nevertheless was effective in limited time on the mound, pitching to a 2.45 ERA, 2.90 ERA and 0.97 WHIP across 25.2 innings (27 games).
During a recent appearance on MLB Network’s “Hot Stove,” Jon Heyman revealed that the Dodgers are hoping to work out new contracts with Jansen and Knebel:
“Jansen and Knebel, they’d like to bring back in the relief market.”
Jansen is on the market for the first time since 2016, when he signed a five-year contract to remain with the Dodgers. L.A. is said to be interested in retaining him, but likely won’t engage in a bidding war with several relievers already on their roster who are capable of closing.
Jansen is expected to have a strong market and reportedly has drawn interest from the Philadelphia Phillies, who are looking to fill their void at closer.
Knebel also figures to have many suitors due to his success with the Dodgers and previous experience as a closer. In addition to the Phillies, the L.A. Angels and Minnesota Twins are among the slew of teams believed to be looking for bullpen reinforcements.
Aside from Jansen and Knebel, the Dodgers will be in the mix to bring back Joe Kelly on a lesser salary after declining his $12 million team option for the 2022 season in favor of a $4 million buyout.
Friedman: Jansen would remain closer if he re-signs with Dodgers
If Jansen returns to the Dodgers this offseason, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman indicated that he would remain in the closer role and have an opportunity to add to his franchise record 350 saves.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
