Bobby Jenks, a towering presence both on and off the mound, passed away on Friday at the age of 44 in Sintra, Portugal. A two-time All-Star and a crucial member of the 2005 World Series-winning Chicago White Sox, Jenks had recently been diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer. His death marks a solemn moment for the baseball community, particularly for White Sox fans who will forever remember his contributions during one of the franchise’s most historic seasons.
Jenks joined the White Sox in 2005 and quickly established himself as a reliable closer with an overpowering fastball and steely composure. That same year, he played a pivotal role in helping Chicago end its 88-year championship drought. In the postseason, Jenks recorded saves in series-clinching games in both the ALDS and the World Series, etching his name into franchise lore. His performance in the ninth inning of Game 4 in Houston remains one of the most iconic moments in team history. Over six seasons with the White Sox, Jenks amassed 173 saves and maintained a career ERA of 3.53.
Following his career in Chicago, Jenks spent a brief stint with the Boston Red Sox in 2011 before retiring from Major League Baseball. Sadly, his post-playing years were plagued by health issues. After relocating to Portugal in 2024, Jenks was diagnosed with a deep vein thrombosis that progressed to blood clots in his lungs, ultimately leading to the discovery of cancer. Despite the aggressive illness, Jenks faced his toughest battle with the same resilience that defined his career.
Tributes poured in following the announcement of his death. White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf praised Jenks for his role in the team’s historic run, stating, “He will be missed as a husband, father, friend and teammate.” Former manager Ozzie Guillen, known for his dramatic bullpen summons for the 6-foot-4 closer, recalled those unforgettable moments and expressed that the upcoming 20th anniversary of the 2005 title will now serve as a celebration of Jenks’ life as well as the team’s triumph.
Jenks is survived by his wife, Eleni Tzitzivacos, their two children, Zeno and Kate, and his four children from a previous marriage. Though his life was cut short, Bobby Jenks leaves behind a lasting legacy—a champion on the field and a fighter off of it. His memory will live on not just in highlight reels and record books, but in the hearts of fans, teammates, and the broader baseball family.
