The New York Yankees have made a major move to reinforce their bullpen, acquiring veteran closer Kenley Jansen from the Los Angeles Angels in a $10 million trade. The deal sees the Yankees beat out competition from both the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs to land one of the most experienced late-inning arms in the league.
Jansen, 37, joined the Angels on a one-year deal this past offseason, but with Los Angeles weighing a potential midseason reset, they chose to flip the veteran for future assets. The Yankees, who have dealt with bullpen inconsistency and injuries, wasted no time in pouncing, offering a package strong enough to fend off two other serious contenders.
While Jansen is no longer the fire-breathing closer from his Dodgers days, he remains effective, still working primarily off his signature cutter. This move gives the Yankees a reliable late-game presence to pair with Clay Holmes and adds valuable postseason experience to a team with October ambitions.
The Red Sox’s interest raised eyebrows, given that they let Jansen walk in free agency just months ago. Meanwhile, the Cubs, riding early-season momentum, had hoped to solidify their bullpen for a deep playoff run. But it was the Yankees who ultimately acted the fastest and most decisively.
The Angels, who are trying to balance staying competitive with planning for the future, opted to deal Jansen now rather than risk losing him for nothing after the season.
With this trade, the Yankees are making it clear: they’re all in on 2025, and Kenley Jansen will now play a key role in their pursuit of a 28th World Series title.
