Kenley Jansen, the Los Angeles Angels’ closer, disclosed that he sustained a rib injury while working out in the gym on Sunday, ahead of the team‘s upcoming series against the Chicago Cubs. The injury came to light after Jansen allowed two earned runs in the ninth inning during Tuesday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds, which marked his first loss since mid-May.
Details on Injury and Impact on Recent Games
During Tuesday’s matchup, Jansen, a two-time National League Reliever of the Year, did not exit the game despite feeling discomfort. However, he was unavailable for the Angels’ series finale against the Reds on Wednesday, a game the Angels won 2-1. With a day off scheduled on Thursday, the Angels plan to reassess Jansen’s condition after this period of rest to decide when he may return to play.
The team’s decision comes as Jansen deals with this injury along with other sidelined pitchers, including Robert Stephenson, Hunter Strickland, and Ben Joyce. The extent of Jansen’s rib issue has not warranted an injured list designation yet, but the team is taking precautions given its role as a key reliever.
Jansen’s Role and Career Background with the Angels
Jansen has served as the primary closer for the Angels throughout the 2025 season, appearing in 51 games. After signing a one-year contract in the offseason, he will enter free agency at the end of the year. The veteran right-hander brings 16 seasons of Major League Baseball experience, including a World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020, and four All-Star selections.
His leadership and reliability are central to the Angels’ bullpen, and his potential absence leaves a gap the team will need to address. Jansen has expressed a goal to continue playing for at least four more seasons, planning to focus on rigorous offseason training to overcome setbacks from last year, which included coping with his parents’ health struggles and the loss of his mother.
Evaluating Jansen’s Recovery and Future Prospects
Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register reported Jansen’s update, noting,
“Kenley Jansen said today the injury is with his ribs. It happened during his workout in the gym on Sunday. He is not available today. Tomorrow is an off day and they’ll see how he is after that.”
This cautious approach highlights the team’s desire to ensure Jansen’s full recovery before returning him to the mound.
If Jansen requires further time off or is placed on the injured list, the Angels will have to rely on other bullpen arms to fill the void during a critical stretch of the season. Meanwhile, several teams could show interest once Jansen becomes a free agent, given his consistent performance and veteran presence.
The Stakes Ahead for the Angels and Jansen
The Angels face a pivotal home series against the Chicago Cubs this weekend, where Jansen’s availability remains uncertain. His injury status is a cause for concern for the team, which depends heavily on his closing skills to secure wins. How quickly Jansen can recover and return to form will influence the Angels’ bullpen strategy moving forward, as they try to maintain momentum in a competitive season.
With Jansen aiming to extend his career, the next weeks will be vital for his health and the Angels’ playoff aspirations. His injury update continues to be closely followed by fans and analysts alike, underscoring the reliever’s importance to the franchise.