Kenley Jansen wants to retire ‘in Dodger blue’

Kenley Jansen wants to retire ‘in Dodger blue’

Boston Red Sox closer Kenley Jansen still has some years left in the tank for his Hall of Fame career. The 36-year-old’s production for Boston this season shows he can still be an elite closer. Many may recognize Jansen from his time as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and when Jansen ultimately says goodbye to baseball, he envisions retiring where it all began. 

“I want to see myself retiring in Dodger blue, but is it a reality?” he said in an interview with Foul Territory.”I don’t have control over that. Also, I don’t know what they’re thinking, and, at the end of the day, it’s a business.” 

Jansen enjoyed success over his 12 seasons with the Dodgers.

Originally signed as a catcher in 2004, he eventually made the transition to the bullpen en route to becoming one of the best closers in the game, appearing in three All-Star teams and twice leading the league in saves.

Not to mention, he is the franchise’s leader in saves with 350, more than double the next-most (Eric Gagne — 161). He is currently fifth all-time in total saves with 438, including the second-most among active players (Craig Kimbrel — 440).

Despite all of that, Jansen said that winning another Championship remains his top priority.

“I want to chase championships. Wherever wants me on their roster when I’m a free agent and (will) give me the best deal for me and my family, that’s where I will go,” Jansen said. “But yes, the Dodgers will have that edge.”

The impending free agent has enjoyed success with both the Atlanta Braves and Red Sox since leaving the blue and white. Some fans may give Jansen criticism for these comments–especially actively playing for another franchise. Jansen called Los Angeles home for over a decade, so why not finish where his career started? 

Regardless, Kenley Jansen returning to the Dodgers at some point or not will not downplay the fact he’s forever remembered as a Dodger great. When he’s enshrined in Cooperstown, expect a Dodger hat to be on his head.

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