The Los Angeles Angels have had a promising start to the season, but if they can’t maintain momentum through the trade deadline, the front office may initiate a rebuild. One potential move? Trading veteran closer Kenley Jansen, who signed a $10 million deal with the Angels this past offseason.
ESPN’s David Schoenfield recently floated the idea of Jansen being moved, naming the Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers, and Chicago Cubs as possible landing spots. “Assuming things unravel — as they have in nine straight losing seasons — Jansen and [Tyler] Anderson are likely trade chips, both set to hit free agency,” Schoenfield wrote.
Though Jansen, 37, isn’t the dominant force he once was with the Dodgers, he remains effective with his signature cutter. While he may not be the ideal closer for a Game 7 scenario, Schoenfield noted that clubs like the Red Sox, Rangers, and Cubs still have some bullpen uncertainty.
The Cubs, riding a strong season, could benefit from added bullpen depth, while the Rangers are pushing to rebound from last year’s disappointment after losing their closer in the offseason. The Red Sox, interestingly, parted ways with Jansen just months ago, so a reunion would be surprising — but not impossible.