Janssen thanks Blue Jays fans for support

Former Toronto Blue Jays closer Casey Janssen joined Prime Time Sports to talk about signing with the Washington Nationals and his time playing in Canada.

Soon after his deal with the Washington Nationals became official, Casey Janssen thanked Toronto Blue Jays fans for years of support.

“I want to thank the city of Toronto, the fans, and most importantly my teammates for a great eight-plus years with you,” Janssen wrote on Twitter. “I wish so badly that we could’ve brought a World Series home to you! Thanks for your for your unwavering support. You will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Casey Janssen on Twitter

Janssen went on to express excitement at the prospect of joining the Nationals, who have won two of the past three NL East titles. Nationals president of baseball operations and GM Mike Rizzo sounds similarly optimistic about what Janssen brings to the team’s bullpen.

“We are happy to add Casey Janssen to our stable of relief arms,” Rizzo said. “We’re excited about what he will bring to our bullpen – on the mound, as one of the most effective and consistent relievers the last several years, as well as in the clubhouse.”

Speaking on Primetime Sports on Monday, Janssen re-iterated what he sent out on Twitter.

“I was so grateful for [the fans’] support, and I truly wish that we could’ve brought a championship to them,” Janssen said. “It’s sad for me to go knowing that I left and we weren’t able to accomplish that.”

Janssen agreed to a one-year, $5-million deal with Washington that includes a mutual option for 2016.

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