Kenley Jansen
Breakdown
Performance
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May 4, 2026
Could have pitched Sunday
Jansen (groin/abdomen) would have pitched, if needed, in Sunday's 7-1 win over the Rangers, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports.
Analysis
Jansen had been dealing with some right groin/abdomen tightness since Wednesday, but manager AJ Hinch explained that the right-hander would've pitched had the score been close in Sunday's series finale with Texas. The 38-year-old appears to be healthy heading into Monday's series opener with the Red Sox, and Jansen will look to get back on track against one of his former squads. He's surrendered four runs on three hits, including two home runs, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of an inning over his last two appearances, both of which were blown saves.
May 2, 2026
Dealing with groin soreness
Manager A.J. Hinch said Saturday that Jansen has been day-to-day with right groin/abdomen soreness, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports.
Analysis
Jansen has been dealing with the injury ever since his most recent appearance Wednesday in Atlanta, during which he conceded two earned runs and failed to record an out. He doesn't seem to be trending toward a trip to the injured list at the moment, though that could change if he doesn't return within the next few days.
April 30, 2026
Blows another save Wednesday
Jansen (0-2) allowed two runs on a hit and a walk while not retiring any batters to blow the save and take the loss Wednesday against Atlanta.
Analysis
Staked to a 3-2 lead in the bottom of the ninth inning, Jansen came unraveled quickly. He walked Ozzie Albies to start the frame, then served up a walkoff home run to Matt Olson. It was Jansen's second straight blown save opportunity and his third already this year in nine chances to go along with a 6.14 ERA. The veteran's impressive MLB track record suggests he'll be given some leeway in the closer role, though he has not been overly effective so far in his first season with the Tigers.