John Conway MD
2 min read • June 28, 2022
Posted in
The Atlanta Braves placed closer Kenley Jansen on the 15-day IL Tuesday because of an irregular heartbeat.
This marks the fourth time Jansen, 34, has landed on IL with his heart issue and he's undergone two heart procedures in his career.
He had an ablation procedure in 2018 to address atrial fibrillation he experienced in Denver earlier that season.
The former Dodgers closer underwent a similar procedure following the 2012 season, after he had another episode in Colorado in August that year.
In July 2011, he reportedly felt his heart racing at 200 beats per minute and was taken to the hospital.
He missed a month and was put on blood thinners.
Despite this lengthy history of heart issues, Jansen and the Braves are reportedly optimistic about his chances to return after the 15-day period.
The IL move was made retroactive to Monday, making the 13-year veteran eligible to be activated a few days before the MLB All-Star break, which starts on July 18.
Our team of Pro Baseball Docs agree that a quick return is feasible. As far as heart issues go, atrial fibrillation is on the less concerning side. Structurally, the heart is sound. The issue is an abhorrent electric signal.
It can be managed with blood thinners or a procedure to shock the heart back into rhythm, as Jansen has undergone in the past. The 15-day period is likely a monitoring period for Jansen and the medical staff to ensure the issue is under control.
Our team of Pro Baseball Docs has had hands-on experience with multiple professional athletes who have managed atrial fibrillation and had lengthy careers.
Jansen has a SIC score of 93 for the remainder of the season, indicating that our panel of Pro Baseball Docs are not concerned about his longevity.
Jesús Cruz was recalled from Triple-A to help in the bullpen. Will Smith and A.J. Minter will likely share the closing duties until Jansen is back.
Jansen has a 3.58 ERA and 47 strikeouts across 32 2/3 innings for the Braves this season. He has collected saves in 20 of 24 opportunities.
Written by John Conway MD
