Bobby Jenks, a former MLB All-Star and key figure in the Chicago White Sox’s 2005 World Series win, has died at the age of 44. He passed away on Friday in Sintra, Portugal, where he had been living since last year.
Jenks had been battling adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer. His diagnosis came earlier this year after several health problems, including blood clots in his lungs that started from a deep vein thrombosis in his leg. Despite medical treatment, his condition worsened over time.
The Chicago White Sox confirmed his passing and paid tribute to the former closer, calling him an unforgettable part of the team’s history. The club chairman remembered Jenks for his strength both on and off the field and praised his impact during the team’s historic 2005 championship run.
Jenks pitched six seasons for the White Sox from 2005 to 2010. He then spent a short time with the Boston Red Sox in 2011. Over his career, he held a 16-20 record with a 3.53 ERA and saved 173 games. His powerful presence on the mound and closing ability earned him two All-Star selections and a reputation as one of baseball’s most reliable late-inning arms.
In the 2005 postseason, Jenks became a fan favorite as Chicago stormed through the playoffs with an 11-1 record. He secured key saves, including one in Game 3 of the ALDS and the final out of the World Series in Game 4 against the Houston Astros. That moment sealed the franchise’s first championship in 88 years.
The following seasons showcased Jenks’ consistency. In 2006, he saved 41 games. He followed with another 40 saves in 2007 and made headlines that year by retiring 41 consecutive batters—tying a major league record for a relief pitcher.
Jenks was also known for his size and style. At 6-foot-4 and 275 pounds, his entrance from the bullpen became a spectacle. Then-manager Ozzie Guillen would dramatically stretch his arms wide to call for him, a move fans came to recognize instantly. Jenks’ size and dominance made him one of the most memorable closers of his era.
Guillen, now reflecting on his former pitcher’s passing, said that everyone has a favorite Bobby Jenks memory. He noted that the upcoming 20th-anniversary reunion of the 2005 championship team would be a time to honor and celebrate Jenks’ contributions.
Tributes also came from former teammates. In a video posted by the team, longtime White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko spoke about Jenks’ early dominance. He recalled how Jenks quickly became one of the most feared relievers in the game by striking out top hitters with ease.
In one of his final interviews, Jenks spoke about his love for the sport. He shared how his goal had always been to become a world champion and that playing baseball brought him pure joy. His passion for the game remained strong even after his retirement from professional play.
Jenks was born in Mission Hills, California, and was drafted by the then-Anaheim Angels in the fifth round of the 2000 MLB Draft. He later joined the White Sox and built his legacy as a vital part of one of the most successful teams in the franchise’s history.
He briefly played for the Boston Red Sox in 2011, appearing in 19 games before injuries and health issues ended his major league career.
Before Saturday night’s game against the White Sox, the Colorado Rockies held a moment of silence in Jenks’ memory.
Bobby Jenks is survived by his wife, Eleni Tzitzivacos, their two children, Zeno and Kate, and four children from a previous marriage—Cuma, Nolan, Rylan, and Jackson.
