White Sox Pay Tribute to World Series Champion Bobby Jenks

The Chicago White Sox and their passionate fans faced somber news earlier this week. Former pitcher Bobby Jenks, just 44, passed away from Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a tough form of stomach cancer.

During their first home game after the announcement, the team honored Jenks—a huge part of their 2005 World Series win. Heartfelt gestures captured his legacy on the mound and the respect he earned off it.

They wore commemorative jersey patches, and a moving video tribute played on the big screen. Jenks’ memory felt alive in true White Sox fashion, as a hero who’ll always have a place in franchise history.

Honoring Bobby Jenks: A Tribute Fit for a Champion

The White Sox really went all out to celebrate Jenks’ life and career. Before the opening pitch at Rate Field, fans stood for a moment of silence while highlights from Jenks’ career lit up the stadium.

His intimidating fastball and coolness under pressure made him unforgettable. He’s still a legend in White Sox lore, no doubt about it.

Players wore patches with Jenks’ iconic No. 45—a tribute that’ll last the rest of the 2025 season. It’s a fitting way to remember someone so crucial to their 2005 World Series title.

A Dominant Career with a World Series Legacy

Bobby Jenks started his MLB journey in 2005 when the White Sox called him up. That same year, he jumped right into the closer role and showed off his incredible talent and calm under pressure.

Jenks’ dominance helped the White Sox sweep the Houston Astros in the World Series. He pitched in all four games, using his fastball to overpower some of the league’s best hitters.

He spent six of his seven MLB seasons with the White Sox and earned All-Star nods in 2006 and 2007. Jenks ended his career with a 3.53 ERA. After Chicago, he had a brief stint with the Boston Red Sox before retiring.

Bobby Jenks: The Fighter on and off the Field

Jenks’ achievements on the field were impressive, but his personal battles off the field really showed his strength. After retiring, he struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction.

In 2012, he made a huge change and embraced sobriety, inspiring others facing similar challenges.

In February 2025, Jenks shared his diagnosis of Stage 4 adenocarcinoma. He’d moved to Portugal to be closer to his wife’s family. Even while fighting cancer, he stayed hopeful and looked forward to the White Sox’s 20th anniversary World Series celebration.

Sadly, he passed away before he could reunite with his 2005 teammates.

A Family Man and a White Sox Icon

Jenks leaves behind his wife and six children—four from a previous marriage. His devotion to his family was clear, even as he faced tough personal battles and illness.

For the White Sox community, Jenks was more than just an ace closer. He symbolized resilience, grit, and a kind of redemption that’s hard to come by. His memory lives on in the fans, his teammates, and a franchise that’ll always be grateful for what he gave them.

The Enduring Legacy of Bobby Jenks

The Chicago White Sox have made sure Bobby Jenks’ legacy sticks around, not just on the field. With those No. 45 patches and a bunch of heartfelt ceremonies planned all season, the team wants every generation of fans to remember the big guy who helped bring home the 2005 World Series title.

• Career Highlights: 2005 World Series Champion. Two-time All-Star (2006, 2007). Career 3.53 ERA.
• Life Battles: He overcame alcoholism and drug addiction. Jenks got sober in 2012.
• Personal Legacy: Beloved family man. Devoted husband and father of six.

 
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