Former White Sox Star Closer Bobby Jenks Dies at 44 After Battling Cancer in Portugal
Bobby Jenks, the powerful two-time All-Star pitcher who played a crucial role in ending the Chicago White Sox’s 88-year championship drought during their unforgettable 2005 World Series run, has died at the age of 44. His death occurred on Friday in Sintra, Portugal, where he had been living following a recent move overseas.
Jenks had been diagnosed earlier this year with adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer, after initially suffering from deep vein thrombosis in his right leg that led to blood clots in his lungs. These health challenges prompted extensive medical evaluations, ultimately revealing the more serious underlying condition.
Over the course of his six-season career with the White Sox from 2005 to 2010, Jenks left a lasting impression with his intensity, talent, and reliability in the bullpen. He later had a brief stint with the Boston Red Sox in 2011, marking the end of his Major League Baseball career. Jenks retired with a 16-20 win-loss record, a 3.53 ERA, and 173 saves, securing his place as one of the league’s top closers during his peak.
The White Sox organization paid tribute to Jenks, with Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf remembering his contributions fondly. “None of us will ever forget that ninth inning of Game 4 in Houston,” he said, recalling Jenks' final performance that helped secure the team's historic 2005 World Series victory. “He and his family knew cancer would be his toughest battle, and he will be missed as a husband, father, friend, and teammate. He will forever hold a special place in all our hearts.”
Jenks was a dominant force in the 2005 postseason, appearing in six games and earning crucial saves—most notably in the clinching games of both the American League Division Series against Boston and the World Series against Houston. The team went 11-1 in the playoffs, thanks in part to his consistent performance under pressure.
The following years saw Jenks continue to deliver on the mound. In 2006, he recorded 41 saves, and in 2007, he added 40 more, tying a major league record by retiring 41 consecutive batters that same year—a feat matched by only a handful of relievers in history.
One of the most memorable sights for White Sox fans was manager Ozzie Guillen summoning Jenks from the bullpen by stretching his arms wide, signaling the entrance of the 6-foot-4, 275-pound powerhouse. That moment became an iconic image of Chicago’s championship journey.
Earlier this year, as news of his health condition became public, the White Sox rallied around Jenks, posting a heartfelt message on social media: “We stand with you, Bobby,” showing solidarity and support as he underwent treatment.
Jenks’ passing comes just weeks before the White Sox were set to hold a 20th-anniversary reunion for the 2005 title team—a celebration that now carries a somber note as it prepares to honor one of its most pivotal and beloved players.