The San Diego Padres are poised to be active buyers at this month’s trade deadline following the departure of All-Star closer Josh Hader last offseason. They are reportedly considering acquiring Kenley Jansen, a potential future Hall of Fame closer, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
Heyman reports that both the Padres and their division rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, have shown interest in Jansen. Despite Jansen’s solid performance this season with 16 saves, a 2.22 ERA, 33 strikeouts, and a 1.02 WHIP in 28.1 innings pitched for the Red Sox, his trade to either team is not assured.
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While the Red Sox are contending and near securing a playoff spot, sitting just 1.5 games back in the Wild Card race and five games above .500, it remains uncertain if they would be willing to part with their reliable closer. Jansen boasts an impressive career resume, including four All-Star selections, being named to the All-MLB Second Team in 2021, and twice leading the National League in saves and earning Reliever of the Year honors twice.
If acquired by the Padres, Jansen would join Robert Suarez to form a formidable back-end duo in their bullpen and mark his fourth team in his distinguished career.
