DETROIT (DA) — The Detroit Tigers declined Curaçao-born closer Kenley Jansen’s $12 million club option for 2027 on Monday, the club announced. The decision triggers a $2 million buyout.
Jansen, 39, returns to free agency with 498 career saves. He needs 2 more to join Mariano Rivera and Trevor Hoffman as the only pitchers to reach 500.
In his first season with Detroit, Jansen recorded 22 saves and a 3.20 ERA across 45 innings. He also blew 6 save opportunities and allowed 7 home runs.
His one-year contract guaranteed $11 million, including a $9 million salary for 2026 and the buyout.
Detroit retained pitcher Drew Anderson by exercising his $10 million option for 2027. The Tigers also signed right-hander Jacob Waguespack to a one-year major league contract guaranteeing $1.3 million for next season, with performance bonuses that could increase its value to $1.5 million.