On Wednesday, Red Sox closer Kenley Jansen became just the seventh pitcher in MLB history to record 400 saves.
Boston’s 35-year-old shut the door on the Braves, his former team, for his ninth save of the year, and in doing so reached the four-century mark across his 14-year career in MLB.
Among the first to congratulate him was Red Sox legend Pedro Martínez, who recorded a video message for Jansen.
“Hey Kenley, I want to be one of the first to congratulate on the 400th save of your career. May God bless you, keep you healthy, and you’re gonna save many more. God bless you, my brother. I love you,” said Martínez, with the game on in the background.
Pedro Martínez congratulates Kenley Jansen! pic.twitter.com/EmRwkGjmXh
— Boston Strong (@BostonStrong_34) May 11, 2023
Jansen pitched the ninth inning of the Red Sox’s 5–2 win against Atlanta, surrendering one hit and striking out one batter.
Likely aware of the situation, and playing against his former ball club, Jansen had a little bit of added velocity to his pitches tonight.
According to Sarah Langs, Jansen’s three hardest pitches on the evening clocked in at 98.7 mph, 98.5 mph, and 98.4 mph. They were the fastest three pitches he’s thrown in seven years, dating back to the 2016 season.
It’s only Jansen’s first season pitching for the Red Sox, having spent last season with the Braves and the previous 12 campaigns as the Dodgers’ closer. Despite his lack of longevity in Beantown, the veteran closer clearly has the respect of one of the franchise’s most legendary hurlers in Martínez.
