Kenley Jansen

Kenley Jansen is a Curaçaoan relief pitcher recognized for his career as a closer in Major League Baseball. Jansen began his professional journey as a catcher, representing the Netherlands national team in the World Baseball Classic before transitioning to pitching. After converting to the mound, he made his major league debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers and became the team's closer. Jansen led the National League in saves multiple times and broke the all-time Dodgers saves record, surpassing Eric Gagné to become the franchise's leader. He contributed to the Dodgers' World Series championship.

Jansen's pitching style is defined by his cutter, typically thrown between 92 and 95 mph, which is known for its late, sharp break. This pitch has been central to his success in inducing weak contact and limiting hard-hit balls. Jansen is a four-time MLB All-Star and a two-time NL Reliever of the Year. He has consistently ranked among the top closers in professional baseball.

Throughout his career, Jansen has managed atrial fibrillation, a heart condition, undergoing a catheter ablation procedure and advocating for AFib awareness. He encourages athletes and the public to pay attention to health issues that could impact their careers or lives.

Jansen reached several career milestones, including becoming the 30th pitcher to achieve 300 career saves, the seventh to reach 400 saves, and joining the 450-save club. He is the fourth player in MLB history to record at least 20 saves in 13 consecutive 162-game seasons. Jansen has played for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Angels, and Detroit Tigers. His career is marked by longevity, high save totals, and resilience, establishing him as a significant figure in professional baseball and sports health advocacy.