### Bobby Jenks: A Beloved White Sox Closer Passes Away at 44 Bobby Jenks, the former closer for the Chicago White Sox and a key player in their 2005 World Series victory, has tragically passed away at the age of 44. His death on July 5, 2025, followed a courageous battle with adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer. Jenks was not only celebrated for his contributions to the White Sox but also remembered fondly by teammates and fans alike, especially as the team prepares to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their championship win. His passing has left a profound impact on the baseball community, particularly among those who witnessed his pivotal role in ending the franchise's 88-year championship drought [https://nypost.com/2025/07/06/sports/bobby-jenks-death-has-left-former-white-sox-teammates-crushed, https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/2005-world-series-hero-bobby-jenks-dies-at-44-white-sox-mourn-loss-ahead-of-title-team-reunion-article-152234303]. ### Overview of Bobby Jenks' Life and Career 1. **Early Life and Career Beginnings** - Drafted in the fifth round of the 2000 MLB Draft by the Anaheim Angels, Jenks faced early career challenges, including injuries due to his fast pitching style. - He was claimed off waivers by the White Sox before the 2005 season, making his major league debut that July [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/former_white_sox_closer_2005_world_champion_bobby_jenks_dies_at_age_44/s1_17200_42419151]. 2. **2005 World Series Triumph** - Jenks played a crucial role in the White Sox's 2005 World Series victory, notably closing out Game 4 against the Houston Astros, which secured the championship for the team [https://www.today.com/video/bobby-jenks-world-series-champion-with-white-sox-dies-at-44-242758725511]. - His performance during the season included six saves in the regular season and two saves in the playoffs, contributing significantly to the team's success [https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/bobby-jenks-2-time-all-star-closer-and-world-series-champion-with-the-chicago-white-sox-dies-at-44]. 3. **Health Struggles and Final Days** - Jenks was diagnosed with Stage 4 adenocarcinoma earlier in 2025 and was receiving treatment in Sintra, Portugal, at the time of his death [https://www.reuters.com/sports/white-sox-icon-bobby-jenks-passes-away-age-44-2025-07-05]. - His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from former teammates and fans, highlighting the impact he had on the team and the sport [https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/chicago-white-sox/white-sox-news-bobby-jenks-2005-world-series-teammates-pay-tribute-death]. ### Impact and Legacy of Bobby Jenks - **Career Highlights** - Two-time All-Star and World Series champion, known for his powerful pitching and clutch performances [https://abc7chicago.com/post/former-chicago-white-sox-pitcher-bobby-jenks-dies-44/16974458]. - His contributions to the White Sox are celebrated as part of the franchise's history, particularly during the 2005 season [https://www.mensjournal.com/news/beloved-mlb-pitchers-cause-of-death-released-after-he-dies-at-44]. - **Community Response** - The White Sox community is mourning his loss, with many reflecting on his legacy and the joy he brought to fans during his career [https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2025/jul/06/bobby-janks-champion-closer-with-north-idaho-ties-]. - Teammates from the 2005 championship team have shared heartfelt tributes, emphasizing the bond they shared and the impact Jenks had on their lives [https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2025/07/06/baseball/mlb/bobby-jenks-dies-44]. ### Conclusion: Remembering Bobby Jenks Bobby Jenks' legacy as a fierce competitor and beloved teammate will endure in the hearts of White Sox fans and the broader baseball community. His contributions to the 2005 World Series championship and his indomitable spirit in the face of illness serve as a testament to his character. As the White Sox prepare to honor their 2005 championship team, Jenks' memory will undoubtedly be a focal point of reflection and celebration. 1. **Legacy of Excellence**: Jenks' role in the 2005 World Series remains a defining moment in White Sox history. 2. **Community Mourning**: His passing has united fans and former teammates in shared grief and remembrance. 3. **Enduring Impact**: Jenks will be remembered not just for his statistics, but for the joy and excitement he brought to the game [https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/bobby-jenks-white-sox-world-series-champion-dies-at-44-after-battle-with-cancer].