Kenley Jansen's first year as a Brave has, much like the Braves' season, had its ups and downs. Through 65 games played, Jansen has given up the second highest ERA, 3.38, of his career. He's also given up his third highest amount of homeruns in a single season for his career with eight on the year.
On the flip side, Jansen finished the regular season with 41 saves, which led the NL. After a stellar performance in the Braves sweep of their final series against the Mets, Jansen seems to be on the uptick right now, and could be gearing up to play his best ball of the season.
From the beginning of August to the end of September Jansen looked lost, or "wandering through the woods," as Grant McAuley stated on "From the Diamond" this Saturday.
During that time Jansen blew seven games, and most importantly his cutter, one his ace pitches, was anything but reliable. However, the 13-year vet looked like the former All-Star he in what was the division clinching series against the Mets. Jansen allowed no runs and earned five strikeouts in the three-game sweep.
The bright spot continued as Jansen pitched just once in the final series of the regular season against the Marlins, and was able to pull out a win with two more strikeouts.
Kenley Jansen's success is paramount to the championship aspirations of the Braves. With a healthy and efficient closer in Jansen, the Braves pitching rotation is one of the best in the MLB. A key to becoming the first team since the 2000 Yankees to win back to back World Series Championships.
