Tigers' Kenley Jansen moves into third place on MLB's all-time saves list

Detroit's closer earned his 479th career save against the Kansas City Royals.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:18am

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic pitching motion of a baseball closer, with the player's features obscured by the energetic brushstrokes.Kenley Jansen's electric closing performance propels him up the MLB saves leaderboard.Kansas City Today

Detroit Tigers closer Kenley Jansen earned his 479th career save on Tuesday night, moving him into third place on MLB's all-time saves list. Jansen escaped a late-inning jam to protect a 2-1 lead against the Kansas City Royals, trailing only Mariano Rivera and Trevor Hoffman for the most career saves.

Why it matters

Jansen's climb up the all-time saves list cements his status as one of the greatest closers in MLB history. His ability to consistently shut down opposing offenses in high-pressure situations has been a key factor in the Tigers' recent success.

The details

Jansen allowed a single and a stolen base in the top of the ninth inning, but he was able to get the final two outs to preserve the Tigers' one-run lead. The veteran right-hander has been dominant throughout his 17-year MLB career, relying on his nasty cutter to overpower hitters.

  • Jansen earned his 479th career save on April 15, 2026.
  • He moved past Hall of Famer Lee Smith for third place on the all-time saves list.

The players

Kenley Jansen

A 17-year MLB veteran and likely future Hall of Famer, Jansen is the Detroit Tigers' closer and now ranks third on the all-time saves list.

Lane Thomas

The Kansas City Royals outfielder singled and stole a base against Jansen in the ninth inning.

Salvador Perez

The Royals catcher grounded out, allowing the runner to advance to third base.

Vinnie Pasquantino

The Royals first baseman grounded out to second base with the tying run on third, unable to bring home the runner.

Zach McKinstry

The Tigers' second baseman fielded the grounder and kept the runner at third base.

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What they’re saying

“Chase whatever you want in baseball. This game delivers that message to us over and over again.”

— Jason Beneitti, Tigers broadcaster

What’s next

Jansen will look to continue his climb up the all-time saves list as the Tigers aim to maintain their position atop the AL Central division.

The takeaway

Kenley Jansen's remarkable career as a closer has cemented his legacy as one of the best to ever do it. His ability to consistently shut down opposing offenses in high-leverage situations has been a key factor in the Tigers' recent success, and his climb up the all-time saves list is a testament to his dominance and longevity.