MLB

Kenley Jansen voiced his frustration with a singular issue following a turbulent performance.

Daniel Dakur April 15, 2024

35 1 minute read

Kenley Jansen, the Boston Red Sox closer, faced frustrations following a shaky outing marked by command issues at the start of the 2024 season. Despite closing out a 5-4 victory over the Los Angeles Angels, Jansen struggled, allowing one run on a hit and a walk in the 9th inning. Notably, it was his eighth walk of the season in just 5.2 innings, indicating significant challenges with pitch accuracy.

Addressing his performance, Jansen took ownership of his inconsistency in throwing strikes but pointed to what he perceives as a larger issue within Major League Baseball (MLB) regarding the quality of baseballs.

Kenley says inconsistency is on him, but really went into criticizing quality of the baseballs. Said it has been an issue among pitchers all year. ‘I just hope we can get better quality of baseballs. It’s embarrassing.’

— Rob Bradford (@bradfo) April 14, 2024

Expressing his hope for improved baseball quality, Jansen remarked, “It’s embarrassing.” While his concerns may be valid, they haven’t been widely echoed within the league this year.

The A’s have won three straight series for the first time since May 2021

(via @NBCSAthletics) pic.twitter.com/Ol93s6Nxfo

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) April 14, 2024

MLB has previously faced allegations regarding variable baseball quality affecting offense, though the league has consistently refuted such claims. Despite the lack of consensus on this matter, Jansen’s command struggles are evident, particularly compared to his track record. Last season, he issued 17 walks in 44.2 innings, whereas this year, he’s already halfway to that number before April concludes.