Bobby Jenks, a former All-Star closer and key figure in the Chicago White Sox’s 2005 World Series victory, has died at the age of 44, the team confirmed Saturday.
Jenks passed away Friday in Sintra, Portugal, where he had been undergoing treatment for adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer, according to CNN.
A dominant presence on the mound, Jenks played a crucial role in the White Sox’s championship run, recording four saves across six postseason appearances in 2005. He was named an All-Star in both 2006 and 2007, racking up 41 saves in ’06 and 40 in ’07, solidifying his status as one of the top closers in baseball during that era.
Bobby Jenks was a dominant MLB pitcher best known for his role as a closer with the Chicago White Sox during the mid-2000s. Born on March 14, 1981, in Mission Hills, California, Jenks overcame a challenging childhood and early setbacks to rise to professional baseball success. He was originally drafted by the Anaheim Angels in 2000 but was released due to injuries and discipline issues. Shortly after, the Chicago White Sox picked him up—a move that would change his life.
Jenks made his MLB debut in 2005 and quickly became a key player for the White Sox. That same year, he helped lead the team to its first World Series title in 88 years. He made six postseason appearances, including saving four games, and was celebrated for his blazing fastball and calm presence under pressure.
Over the next few seasons, Jenks established himself as one of the league’s premier closers. He earned All-Star selections in 2006 and 2007, recording 41 and 40 saves in those seasons, respectively. At his peak, he was known for his overpowering pitches, often reaching speeds above 100 mph.
Injuries eventually took a toll on his career, and after a stint with the Boston Red Sox, Jenks retired from Major League Baseball. In the years that followed, he dealt with serious health problems, including back surgeries and complications from a botched medical procedure.
“He and his family knew cancer would be his toughest battle, and he will be missed as a husband, father, friend and teammate,” White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf said per CNN. “He will forever hold a special place in all our hearts.”
Jenks is survived by his wife, Eleni Tzitzivacos, their two children, Zeno and Kate, as well as four children from a previous marriage: Cuma, Nolan, Rylan, and Jackson.
