Boston Red Sox supporters have endured a frustrating offseason marked by ownership’s reluctance to invest in the team, despite its status as one of the league’s premier franchises. Now, another concern has emerged, further clouding the outlook for the upcoming season.
In 2023, one of the Red Sox’s key strengths was their formidable bullpen, bolstered by the performances of newcomers Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin.
However, Jansen’s immediate availability is now in doubt due to recurring lower back tightness. According to Ian Browne of MLB.com, Jansen was once again sidelined from a recent spring training game, prompting concerns about his readiness for the season opener.
Kenley Jansen was again scratched today with lower back tightness. He needs to get right in the next day or two to start the season on the active roster.
— Ian Browne (@IanMBrowne) March 19, 2024
Browne noted that Jansen must recover swiftly within the next day or two to avoid starting the season on the injured list (IL).
Despite signing a lucrative 2-year, $32 million deal, Jansen’s debut season with the Red Sox saw him notch 29 saves but also struggle with a 3.63 ERA. Notably, he encountered a rough patch in mid-May, blowing three saves in two weeks, including consecutive blown saves against the St. Louis Cardinals.
However, he rebounded and only faltered in one other save opportunity throughout the season. As a 4-time All-Star and former World Series champion entering a contract year at 36 years old, Jansen’s performance is pivotal, particularly after registering a career-high ERA last season.
Should Jansen require time off, Martin stands poised to assume the closer role, given his exceptional 1.05 ERA in the previous season.