Kenley Jansen reveals absence from camp was due to positive COVID-19 test

We now know why Kenley Jansen was absent from Dodgers summer camp

Kenley Jansen was among several Dodgers players absent from camp as the team tries to get ready for the 2020 regular season, and now we know why. Per Jansen, he and his son were suffering from COVID-19.

Jansen is doing much better now, but as is the case with MLB policy, Dave Roberts was not allowed to reveal exactly why his closer was missing time. This led to further speculation, which has now been proven to be correct by the man himself. What’s most important about all of this, however, is that all those involved are doing okay.

Kenley Jansen was diagnosed with COVID-19, but is back at Dodgers camp now.

To say the Dodgers can’t afford to lose Jansen is an understatement, as the closer is able to match LA’s already formidable rotation. Had Jansen been unable to go, the Dodgers could have relied upon the likes of Brake Treinen, a fellow veteran who could’ve kept the seat warm for a few weeks while the 32-year-old recovered. Joe Kelly could’ve stepped in as well had he been called upon.

With Jansen now in tow, the Dodgers are among the favorites to win a World Series, even in the shortened 60-game season. Their rotation features the likes of Clayton Kershaw and Walker Buehler, while the lineup, with Cody Bellinger leading the way, can stack up against anyone.

Jansen is just one of many players impacted by the pandemic so far, though he claims he never wavered from his decision to play out the 2020 season despite his illness. With Opening Day just weeks away, Jansen will have to catch up to speed on the fly.