Jansen set for short break after struggles
Closer expected to be available when Dodgers travel to Texas
LOS ANGELES -- You don't need an EKG to see that something isn't right with Kenley Jansen, who will get at least a little time off after allowing a ninth-inning home run for the third consecutive appearance on Saturday, even though the Dodgers pulled out a 5-4 walk-off win in 12 innings over San Diego.
Manager Dave Roberts said Jansen -- who has been ineffective since rushing back from a stint on the disabled list following an irregular heartbeat -- will not pitch in Sunday's series finale against San Diego, and after a travel day on Monday, "the plan is" to have Jansen close on Tuesday in Texas.
Jansen wouldn't even commit to that, although he stressed that he hasn't lost his confidence, not even after Austin Hedges slugged a game-tying home run with one out in the ninth inning Saturday night.
"You can't beat yourself up over these results," said Jansen. "It sucks, but the ball is running too much and he hit it out. Kind of bad luck there. I'm very close. The good thing is our team picked me up today, so it feels better."
Jansen wouldn't say if he is on any special medication in the wake of his latest heart episode or if he is feeling any side effects.
"Not the first time I've blown a save, but just too many things going on now," he said. "Try to figure out health-wise and all that stuff and pitching, try to get yourself ready with all that and it's frustrating. I'm 100 percent."
Roberts was vague about why Jansen wouldn't pitch on Sunday.
"Kenley's still fighting through some things to get some traction and feel comfortable out there on the mound," Roberts said. "Coming back 10 days and put him in the fire like we have, give him two days to reset."
Jansen said he might throw a bullpen session on Sunday or just on flat ground.
"Tomorrow is more like have a great time," he said. "Just figure things out. I'm good. I don't need a mental break. Me and Doc had a conversation. I just have to figure out some stuff. Tomorrow I'll sharpen up and be ready."