Tigers' Jansen records 478th career save, moves into 3rd in MLB history

Baez homers as Detroit beats Miami 2-0 to end 5-game skid

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:34am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the abstract, fragmented form of a baseball pitcher in the midst of his throwing motion, with sharp angular shapes in a palette of navy, forest green, and burnt orange.Kenley Jansen's historic save highlights the enduring greatness of one of baseball's most dominant closers.Today in Miami

Detroit Tigers closer Kenley Jansen recorded his 478th career save, tying him for third place on the all-time MLB saves list, as the Tigers defeated the Miami Marlins 2-0 on Friday night. Javier Baez hit a solo home run in the fifth inning to provide the winning margin for Detroit, which snapped a five-game losing streak.

Why it matters

Jansen's historic save milestone is a significant achievement, cementing his status as one of the greatest closers in baseball history. The Tigers' victory also helps them bounce back after a rough stretch, keeping them in contention in the early part of the season.

The details

Jansen struck out one batter in a perfect ninth inning to record his second save of the season and tie Lee Smith for third on the all-time saves list. Baez's fifth-inning home run provided the only scoring for the Tigers, who had loaded the bases earlier in the game but failed to capitalize. Detroit starter Keider Montero pitched six strong innings, allowing just two hits and a walk while striking out seven.

  • Jansen recorded his 478th career save on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Tigers snapped a five-game losing streak with the win.

The players

Kenley Jansen

A 38-year-old right-handed pitcher and closer for the Detroit Tigers, Jansen is now tied for third on the MLB all-time saves list with 478 career saves.

Javier Baez

The Tigers' starting shortstop, Baez hit a solo home run in the fifth inning to provide the winning margin for Detroit.

Keider Montero

The Tigers' starting pitcher, Montero struck out seven batters and allowed just two hits and a walk over six innings of work.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kenley has been a rock for us all these years, and it's great to see him reach this milestone. He's a true competitor and a leader on this team.”

— A.J. Hinch, Tigers Manager

What’s next

The Tigers will look to build on this win as they continue their series against the Marlins on Saturday, with Casey Mize scheduled to take the mound for Detroit.

The takeaway

Jansen's historic save and Baez's timely home run helped the Tigers snap out of their recent slump, providing a much-needed boost as they look to climb back into contention in the AL Central division race.