Kenley Jansen Talks About Ken Howell’s Impact On His Career

Over the weekend, Ken Howell passed away at the age of 57. Howell pitched for the Dodgers for five seasons, and spent 14 as a coach. While Howell’s impact on the organization can’t be summed up in a few words – Kenley Jansen gave it his best shot.

He was going through a lot w/his health & still was the same man of joy. This is a big loss for me, for @Dodgers & for baseball. My thoughts are with his family. I share my condolences with them and all those Kenny Howell affected positively. I know there are many of us. (2/2)

— Kenley Jansen (@kenleyjansen74) November 10, 2018

Jansen said the following on twitter:

“He was going through a lot w/his health & was still the same man of joy. This is a big loss for me, the Dodgers and for baseball. My thoughts are with his family.”

Jansen’s message was actually seen by Kenneth Howell Jr., the son of the late Dodgers pitcher. It was great to see this – as I thought about pitchers who Howell may have impacted – Jansen was the first name that popped into my head. Now, we know how Jansen felt about the fallen Dodgers pitcher and coach.

Jansen didn’t let down in really conveying just how much Howell meant to his career.

“Kenny Howell. What a great mentor, a great man who guided me through my career and helped me be the person I am right now. I think about all the work he did with me pitching in the big leagues. I had to learn quick. He was there.”

Nevertheless, it’s hard to put into perspective just what a great member of the organization’s past was lost entirely too soon. It’s wonderful to hear Kenley Jansen pay tribute on social media in this way.