Red Sox $32 Million Star Confirms Trade Talks, Admits to ‘Frustrating’ Offseason

There is still a chance for the Red Sox to change the course of what has been a relatively uneventful offseason, but any significant developments might have to wait until the team resolves the second year of Kenley Jansen’s $32 million contract. According to a recent report, the Red Sox are reluctant to take on any of Jansen’s salary, which could complicate efforts to trade him.

Nevertheless, Jansen continues to be a key figure in trade talks across MLB, despite his successful performance last season with 29 saves in 51 games and earning an All-Star selection. The uncertainty leading into the new season is proving challenging for the typically laid-back Jansen to navigate.

“It’s challenging. It’s challenging,” Jansen shared on the Fenway Rundown podcast hosted by Sean McAdam and Chris Cotillo of MassLive. “But you have to find ways to tune it out and resist the urge to seek it out. I coped by focusing on spending time with my family. It’s a bit tougher now because my family is back in Los Angeles while I’m here in spring training. I need to find ways to block out distractions, focus on my work here, and see how things unfold. For now, I’m in Boston, and I’ll take things as they come.”

Liam Hendriks, the closer who is currently recovering from an injury, inked a new contract

This week, the Red Sox made a move to bolster their bullpen by acquiring Liam Hendriks, a closer in the process of recovering from Tommy John surgery. Buster Olney from ESPN reported that Hendriks secured a $10 million deal spanning two years, with additional performance-based bonuses. The addition of Hendriks to the team is unlikely to greatly affect Jansen’s position, as Hendriks is anticipated to make his return to pitching later in the season.

The signing of Hendriks marks the third free-agent acquisition the Red Sox have made this offseason, despite an earlier commitment from team chairman Tom Werner in November to pursue an active offseason strategy.

The team’s starting rotation is lacking in strength. Trading Jansen could open up funds for acquiring a top-tier starting pitcher.

However, according to McAdam’s observations from the previous week, “The Red Sox have communicated to other teams that while they are willing to entertain offers for Kenley Jansen, a stance they have maintained throughout the offseason, they are currently uninterested in absorbing any portion of his $16 million salary. Their preference is for another team to take on this financial commitment while offering them valuable prospects in return.”

Kenley Jansen of the Red Sox promises to give his all

Jansen is committed to Boston and plans to maximize his time with the Red Sox, offering guidance to younger pitchers on the team. Despite uncertainties, he intends to give his utmost effort whenever he is needed.

“When present in this team, I will focus on developing the young pitchers and enhancing their skills,” remarked Jansen. “I aim to share my expertise and mutual learning with them. I am dedicated to supporting my team, no matter the circumstances.

“Though it can be tough and frustrating, I have to stay focused and prepared for a successful season ahead.”