Kenley Jansen, the Boston Red Sox’s closer, won’t be joining the team for their series in Colorado due to health problems.
Following Sunday’s 9-6 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Jansen revealed doctors had to use a procedure to correct his heart rhythm after several previous incidents in Colorado.
This wasn’t the first time this had happened to Jansen in Colorado. Similar incidents occurred in 2022 when he played for the Atlanta Braves, and earlier in 2012 and 2018 when he was with the Dodgers.
Jansen explained, “Too many times stuff happened over there with me. It started off when I went back to Atlanta. I started having issues, and then a couple of weeks later, I went back to AFib. Just trying to avoid that right now.”
With the team focused on reaching the playoffs, Jansen emphasized the importance of avoiding health setbacks that could hurt the Red Sox’s chances.
He will return to Boston and aims to be back in action for their upcoming three-game series against the Yankees starting Friday.
Jansen faced challenges during his weekend series against his former team, the Dodgers. On Saturday, he gave up a game-tying home run to Kiké Hernández in the ninth inning, which led to a 7-6 loss in 11 innings. It marked the first home run he allowed this season.
The following day, Jansen pitched in the eighth inning despite the Red Sox trailing, conceding three runs, including a solo homer by Jason Heyward.
Reflecting on the tough weekend, Jansen commented, “I’ve just got to turn the page and be ready for the next series.”
Currently ranking fifth in the American League with 18 saves, Jansen remains a key player for the Red Sox as they continue their season.
