Chris
Bullpens can be the toughest thing to figure out in Major League Baseball.
One moment, a team’s bullpen can look so solid that you never expect them to surrender a run. But suddenly, the playoffs might arrive, and relievers who were unhittable during the regular season are getting shelled. It’s unpredictable, but it might cost a team their season,
So was the case for the 2024 Philadelphia Phillies, who boasted three recent All-Stars in their playoff bullpen, but couldn’t get the big out when they most needed it. A four-game loss to the New York Mets has the Phillies licking their wounds ahead of a pivotal 2025 season.
With Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman both in the free-agent pool, the Phillies could be on the hunt for a new closer. Perhaps they could land a future Hall of Famer to assume that mantle.
Kenley Jansen, a four-time All-Star and one of MLB’s most reliable closers, has officially signed with the Philadelphia Phillies after completing a two-year, $32 million contract with the Boston Red Sox. Jansen’s departure marks a significant change for both teams, particularly for the Red Sox, who benefited from his veteran leadership and ability to close games effectively over the past two seasons.
Jansen, who ranks among MLB’s all-time save leaders, joined Boston ahead of the 2023 season. In his two years with the team, he demonstrated his prowess with a consistent ability to lock down games, earning his fourth All-Star selection during this tenure. However, entering free agency this offseason, Jansen expressed a strong desire to join a contending team. His move to Philadelphia aligns with his goal of competing for a championship in the later stages of his career.
For the Phillies, the addition of Jansen is a strategic boost to their bullpen. Philadelphia has faced challenges with bullpen depth and reliability in recent years, making Jansen’s signing a critical upgrade. Known for his cut fastball and postseason experience, Jansen adds a level of stability and leadership to the back end of the Phillies’ pitching staff. The move also reflects Philadelphia’s commitment to investing in proven talent as they aim to build on their recent playoff successes.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox now face the challenge of finding a replacement for Jansen. As they rebuild their bullpen, speculation has already begun about potential signings or internal promotions to fill the closer role. The team’s willingness to let Jansen walk likely signals a shift in focus as they balance short-term competitiveness with long-term planning.
Jansen’s tenure in Boston was marked by professionalism and excellence, making his move to the Phillies a bittersweet moment for Red Sox fans. For Phillies supporters, the addition of a player with Jansen’s resume and determination is a cause for optimism heading into the 2025 season【10】【11】.
