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Kenley Jansen’s response to not backing up home plate will infuriate Dodgers fans

By Thomas Carannante

Oct 24, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) scores as Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Kenley Jansen (74) looks on during the ninth inning during game four of the 2020 World Series at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) scores as Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Kenley Jansen (74) looks on during the ninth inning during game four of the 2020 World Series at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kenley Jansen’s lack of attentiveness contributed to the Dodgers’ Game 4 loss.

The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered one of the worst losses in a World Series game anyone has ever seen, and that alone was evident by the body language of all their players when Randy Arozarena slapped home plate to give the Tampa Bay Rays the walk-off 8-7 win in Game 4.

What’s worse than the loss and the dejected roster, however? Having terrible responses to the media after the game when you’re questioned about a very legitimate lapse in judgement.

Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen, who allowed two runs (one earned) on two hits and a walk in the ninth on Saturday, also managed to forget to back up home plate on the relay from center field. And it ended up being crucial because the ball got away from catcher Will Smith, which allowed Arozarena to score.

It doesn’t matter? It sure does! That could’ve sent the game into extras tied at 7-7 and you’d have to think the Dodgers would’ve had the edge given, how well they were hitting the ball. Plus, they could’ve tired out the Rays’ bullpen even further to better prepare themselves for Game 5.

Nope! Jansen was just standing in no man’s land watching the Dodgers lose the game. Of course, LA fans couldn’t rely on the struggling reliever to shut the door with ease in the ninth, but you’d think they could’ve trusted him to maintain average baseball IQ during the biggest moment of the game.

That’s not the kind of effort and commentary the team needs after a soul-crushing loss. What’s even worse? Though we all love Clayton Kershaw, the man’s back is up against the wall yet again in what feels like a must-win situation considering the Dodgers will likely be bullpenning in Game 6 with Dustin May/Tony Gonsolin/whoever else.

Let’s just hope someone in the clubhouse is setting these guys straight and getting the positive energy back on track for Sunday night.

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