The Los Angeles Dodgers extended their winning streak to three games and improved to 7-1 on their homestand Wednesday night, with Kenley Jansen converting the save in a comeback win against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
It was Jansen’s 321st save of his career, which tied him with Jose Mesa for 20th all-time. It also moved Jansen into sole possession of third place for most saves with a single team in MLB history.
“It’s awesome. When I found out about that a couple days ago, it definitely hits you. I’m grateful for that,” Jansen said of the accomplishment. I thank God for that, because he keeps me healthy and continues to bless me. It’s just paying off.
“When you play in his name, you see stuff like this happening. Like I said, I’m grateful for it. Especially with the Dodgers, one of the most historic organizations. It’s awesome to have that recognition.”
Jansen entered the night tied with Dennis Eckersley (Oakland Athletics), and now is behind only Hall of Famers Mariano Rivera (652 saves; New York Yankees) and Trevor Hoffman (552; San Diego Padres).
“It’s crazy. The two best who ever did it, and to see your name underneath them, it’s pretty special,” Jansen said. “A kid from Curacao, growing up never thought I’m going to be in the big leagues. And here I am. Things happen fast in life.
“Here I am living a dream, so I’m going to continue to live in it. I’m not going to take it for granted. I’m going to keep coming out here and enjoy it and help our team win ballgames.”
The feat is all the more impressive when taking into account player movement — in particular with closers. “Stuff like this doesn’t happen often, especially a bullpen guy. They get bounced around quite often,” Jansen noted.
“I’m thankful that I’ve been a part of this organization for so long. After this year will be half my life that I’ve been with this organization. It’s a blessing. I’m grateful to be a part of this organization, and I’m just going to continue to enjoy every single day.”
Jansen is in his 17th year and the longest-tenured player in the Dodgers organization, signing with the team out of Curacao in November 2004. His professional career began as a catcher before transitioning to a relief pitcher and then emerging as a dominant closer.
The 34-year-old has struggled since being at his peak a few years ago, but has recaptured some of that form after a change to offseason workouts.
Kershaw, Roberts recognize Jansen
Jansen’s turnaround this season has garnered praise from several members of the organization, including Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and Clayton Kershaw. They again spoke highly of the Dodgers’ closer after he moved up the record books.
“Kenley looks great right now, so I’m happy for him, happy for our team. That’s big. It’s feeling pretty automatic when he gets the ball right now, so that’s a great feeling,” Kershaw said.
“On the sentimental part, there’s … I don’t know how many games that I’ve started and Kenley has closed now. It’s cool to see him have that success and longevity. It’s always good to know he’s ending the games that you pitch in.”
Roberts added: “He’s worked really hard to get back to where he needs to be. Kenley is a strike thrower. I think there were some outings he wasn’t right and didn’t have the command, but his pedigree is a strike thrower, getting ahead and putting guys away.
“That’s what he’s done all year for us, so I’m not surprised. He’s a big part of what we’re trying to do.”
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