Red Sox Teammates Reportedly Disappointed by Kenley Jansen's Early Departure from the Team

The Boston Red Sox’s 2024 season came to an end on Sunday at Fenway Park, but the departure of All-Star closer Kenley Jansen a few days earlier raised eyebrows within the organization. Manager Alex Cora revealed on Friday that Jansen had “gone home” ahead of the team’s final series, shortly after they were eliminated from postseason contention.

Jansen had already been placed on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation and was not expected to pitch again this season. However, his early exit before Game 162 drew criticism from teammates, as reported by MassLive’s Sean McAdam. Anonymous sources indicated that several players were disappointed with Jansen’s decision, with one teammate noting, “I can’t say I’m too surprised,” referencing his aloof demeanor during his time with the team.

Interestingly, Jansen had pitched in the top of the ninth inning of a game against the Minnesota Twins just before his departure, even though the Sox were leading by eight runs. He then announced to reporters that he was done for the season, suggesting they confirm his status with the team.

In response to the fallout, Cora defended Jansen’s decision, explaining that he had told the closer it was okay to go home. “So if they’re upset, they should come to my office and ask me,” Cora stated. He added that they had discussed other personal matters affecting Jansen.

Jansen completed his second season with Boston with a 3.29 ERA and 62 strikeouts over 54.2 innings, achieving 27 saves in 31 opportunities. However, with his early exit and pending free agency, it seems likely that he has played his last game in a Red Sox uniform.

In a previous interview during spring training, Jansen expressed frustration with the team’s direction, emphasizing that he had come to Boston with the expectation of competing in his second year. “I came here for two years where Year 1 we were going to compete but by Year 2 they were really going to go after it,” he remarked, acknowledging the organizational changes that have shaped their current vision. Despite this disappointment, he pledged to give his best effort for the fans in what he believed would be his final season with the team.

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