The Baltimore Orioles had a disappointing postseason in 2024. They could look to bring in some extra bullpen help in order to help make a deeper run in 2025. FanSided’s Nicholas Cinnamo urged the team to sign Boston Red Sox closer Kenley Jansen in free agency to help solidify their bullpen for 2025.
“His 2.20 career ERA in the playoffs bests his 2.57 career ERA in the regular season, which is impressive given he is facing better lineups in the postseason and has pitched in the playoffs in 10 seasons dating back to 2013,” wrote Cinnamo. “His 0.80 WHIP and .148 AVG also jump out, in addition to his 94 strikeouts in 65.1 innings.”
Jansen, 37, is on the older side, but the Orioles don’t necessarily need a closer. They could use Jansen in a high-leverage role or as a setup man. More notably, they could use what he brings to the table in October.
The Orioles have Félix Bautista, but he missed the 2024 season following Tommy John Surgery. Jansen could help take the load off of him. They also have Yennier Cano to serve as the setup man for Bautista when he returns. Adding Jansen could allow the Orioles to have three elite high-leverage arms in their bullpen.
Jansen is a four-time All-Star, two-time National League Trevor Hoffman Reliever of the Year and a World Series champion. Spotrac projects him to sign a two-year, $29 million deal. His postseason experience and ability to take innings off of Cano and Bautista is a real asset.
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