Kenley Jansen’s standing on the Dodgers remains cemented. He is the team’s undisputed closer entering Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday. His teammates and manager insist they are confident in him even after a turbulent regular season. Jansen has maintained his confidence has not wavered in his role.
But Jansen will not be asked to replicate the workload he shouldered during last year’s long playoff run, manager Dave Roberts said before his club’s workout at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday evening. Jansen logged 16 2/3 innings in 13 appearances serving as the bullpen’s anchor last October.