Veteran closer Kenley Jansen has signed a one-year, $9 million deal with the Detroit Tigers, adding experience to their bullpen for the 2026 season. The contract includes a club option for 2027 worth $12 million with a $2 million buyout. Tigers president Scott Harris praised Jansen's success in high-leverage situations.
The Detroit Tigers announced on Wednesday that they have agreed to terms with four-time All-Star Kenley Jansen on a one-year contract worth $9 million. This move bolsters the team's bullpen, which has operated without a traditional closer under manager A.J. Hinch. Jansen, a 38-year-old with 16 years of MLB experience, brings 476 career saves, leading all active players and placing him two shy of third on the all-time list.
Jansen recorded at least 25 saves in 13 consecutive non-shortened seasons. In his most recent campaign with the Angels, he notched 29 saves, posting a career-low 24.4 percent strikeout rate but a strong 0.95 WHIP, his best since 2017. His cutter proved effective, holding opponents to a .164 batting average and .238 wOBA.
The Tigers witnessed Jansen's challenges firsthand on May 2 at Angel Stadium, where he allowed six runs in the ninth inning, including home runs to Riley Greene, Colt Keith, Javier Báez, and another from Greene. However, Jansen rebounded the next day with a save and finished the season strongly, posting a 1.11 ERA and 0.65 WHIP from June 24 onward.
"He’s one of the best to ever do it," Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris said. "He brings experience. He brings a ton of success in the highest leverage moments." Harris noted Jansen's ability to miss bats with his cutter and his late-season dominance.
Under Hinch, the Tigers have used relievers flexibly, with Will Vest leading with 23 saves last year and others contributing. The team recently re-signed Kyle Finnegan. Jansen's role remains flexible, but his addition provides a veteran option for late innings. Harris indicated that Jansen spoke with Hinch and is committed to winning in Detroit.
Historically, the Tigers have had mixed results with veteran closers like Todd Jones, Jose Valverde, Joe Nathan, and Francisco Rodríguez.
