NL Central Shocker: Cubs Land Kenley Jansen From Angels in Power Move to Solidify the Back End!
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In what’s being called one of the most surprising moves of the 2025 MLB season, the Chicago Cubs have reportedly acquired veteran closer Kenley Jansen from the Los Angeles Angels. While the transaction hasn’t been officially confirmed by either team, insiders suggest the deal was made late last night and could be announced within the next 24 hours. If true, this bold move signals that the Cubs are dead serious about contending in the highly competitive NL Central.
Kenley Jansen, 37, brings a wealth of experience, postseason savvy, and proven dominance to the North Side. With over 430 career saves and a World Series ring under his belt, Jansen has long been considered one of the game’s most reliable closers. Despite his age, he’s continued to deliver, posting a 2.84 ERA and 26 saves in 2024 between the Red Sox and Braves before signing with the Angels this past offseason. His velocity may have dipped slightly over the years, but his cutter remains one of the most effective pitches in baseball.
For the Cubs, bullpen stability has been an Achilles’ heel in recent seasons. Though the team has a solid core of young relievers, the lack of a shutdown closer has cost them critical late-inning leads. Jansen’s arrival immediately changes that. He not only brings consistency in the ninth inning but also offers a mentor figure for Chicago’s up-and-coming bullpen arms like Adbert Alzolay and Julian Merryweather.
The timing of the move is just as significant as the move itself. The Cubs have been off to a promising start in 2025, but with the Brewers and Cardinals hot on their heels, the front office clearly felt it was time to push the chips in. President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer has long preached a balance of patience and opportunism—and this trade reflects both. The cost is still unknown, but early whispers point to a mid-tier prospect and possibly a bullpen arm heading back to Anaheim.
For the Angels, the trade might be a sign that they’re beginning to pivot toward a rebuild or at least retooling their roster. Though they began the season with playoff hopes, inconsistent pitching and injuries have plagued their campaign. Shedding Jansen’s salary and acquiring a controllable arm could be a strategic decision aimed at long-term competitiveness.
From a fan perspective, the move has sparked excitement across Wrigleyville. After years of “retooling” and cautious optimism, this trade represents an aggressive return to winning baseball. Jansen’s proven track record, combined with the Cubs’ current momentum, could make them a dark horse in the National League come October.
Only time will tell how this trade plays out, but one thing is clear: the Chicago Cubs are making moves like a team that believes it can win now. And if Kenley Jansen still has some magic left in that right arm, Cubs fans might be dreaming of deep October nights once again.
