Tigers’ Kenley Jansen moves up all-time saves list with win over Marlins

The Detroit Tigers have hit an early-season slump and entered Friday with a five-game losing streak. A new day brings hope for better results, though, and they got just that. Keider Montero threw six scoreless innings, and Kenley Jansen got the save in a 2-0 win over the Miami Marlins at Comerica Park.

Detroit signed Jansen this past winter, hoping the veteran could help stabilize the back end of their bullpen. So far, he has two saves in three opportunities. With his save on Friday, the future Hall of Fame closer further cemented his status as one of the best to ever take the mound.

Jansen now has 478 saves in his long career. He has now moved into third all-time for career saves, as noted by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. He is tied with Hall of Fame closer Lee Smith, who pitched from 1980 to 1997.

Detroit’s offense didn’t muster a ton in terms of runs. Spencer Torkelson drove home a run in the second with a single. And in the fifth, Javier Baez managed to somehow pull a low outside sweeper over the left field fence.

However, the Tigers were brilliant on the mound. They allowed just two hits, both being surrendered by Montero. Montero struck out seven batters in his six frames, and Detroit pitchers struck out nine hitters total.

Detroit is aiming to contend for a World Series. However, it’s been a rough beginning to the 2026 campaign for this group. The Tigers are hoping this win can give them the boost they’ve been searching for. Detroit returns to action on Saturday afternoon, facing the Marlins as they continue their six-game homestand.

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