Kenley Jansen’s sudden departure from the Boston Red Sox in the final stretch of the 2024 season has raised eyebrows and prompted speculation. Jansen, the team’s closer, left the club before the final series of the year, which was confirmed by Red Sox manager Alex Cora. Cora mentioned that after the team was eliminated from postseason contention, Jansen was allowed to go home due to unspecified personal matters. This decision, however, has sparked disappointment among both fans and some players, who felt that Jansen should have remained with the team through the season’s end
The timing of Jansen’s departure coincides with the Red Sox being knocked out of playoff contention, leading to further scrutiny. Cora’s comments suggested that the decision to send Jansen home wasn’t purely Jansen’s own but involved discussions between the two. The manager hinted at personal issues but didn’t elaborate, leaving room for speculation about whether there was more going on behind the scenes.
Inside the clubhouse, the reaction has been mixed. Some Red Sox players anonymously voiced frustration with Jansen’s early exit, pointing out that several injured players remained with the team even though they weren’t playing. Jansen, despite being a veteran and one of the most expensive players on the roster, seemed detached from his teammates, with reports that he even struggled to remember their names. This dissatisfaction within the team may signal deeper issues regarding his commitment or relationships during his two-year tenure in Boston.
