### Bobby Jenks: A Legacy Remembered as the White Sox Icon 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 4, 2025, in Sintra, Portugal, was due to complications from adenocarcinoma, a severe form of stomach cancer that he had been battling for some time. Jenks was not only a beloved figure in the White Sox community but also a two-time All-Star, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise during his six seasons with the team. His contributions to baseball and the White Sox will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike [https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/news-how-bobby-jenks-die-all-need-know-white-sox-icon-s-health-issues, https://www.mensjournal.com/news/beloved-mlb-pitchers-cause-of-death-released-after-he-dies-at-44, https://patch.com/illinois/chicago/bobby-jenks-white-sox-all-star-pitcher-world-series-champ-dies-cancer-44]. ### Overview of Bobby Jenks' Career and Health Struggles 1. **Career Highlights**: - Jenks was a pivotal player for the Chicago White Sox, helping them secure their first World Series title in 88 years in 2005. - He recorded 173 saves and made two All-Star appearances in 2006 and 2007, showcasing his talent as a top closer in Major League Baseball [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, https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/former_white_sox_closer_2005_world_champion_bobby_jenks_dies_at_age_44/s1_17200_42419151]. 2. **Health Issues**: - Jenks publicly announced his diagnosis of Stage 4 adenocarcinoma in February 2025, revealing that he was undergoing treatment in Portugal. - Despite his poor prognosis, he expressed determination to fight the disease [https://www.aol.com/bobby-jenks-former-white-sox-210654258.html, https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/former_mlb_closer_bobby_jenks_dies_at_44/s1_127_42418322]. 3. **Community Impact**: - The White Sox organization and fans have expressed deep sorrow over his passing, with team chairman Jerry Reinsdorf highlighting Jenks' significant contributions to the team's history and his lasting impact on the community [https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/07/05/chicago-white-sox-bobby-jenks-death, https://www.themirror.com/sport/baseball/breaking-jenks-dead-white-sox-1247859]. ### Key Statistics and Achievements - **Career Stats**: - **Saves**: 173 (2nd in White Sox history) - **Strikeouts**: 334 in 341.2 innings pitched - **ERA**: 3.53 over 348 career games [https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/bobby-jenks-white-sox-world-series-champion-dies-at-44-after-battle-with-cancer, https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2025-07-05/former-all-star-closer-bobby-jenks-dies-at-44]. - **World Series Contribution**: - Closed out Game 4 of the 2005 World Series, securing the championship for the White Sox [https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/mlb/former-white-sox-pitcher-bobby-jenks-dies-44-rcna217080, https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2025/07/06/baseball/mlb/bobby-jenks-dies-44]. ### Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy Bobby Jenks' passing marks a significant loss for the baseball community, particularly for the Chicago White Sox, where he is remembered as a hero and a fierce competitor. His journey from a promising pitcher to a World Series champion and beloved figure is a testament to his talent and determination. As the White Sox prepare to honor the 20th anniversary of their 2005 championship team, Jenks' legacy will undoubtedly be a central part of the celebration, reminding fans of the joy he brought to the game [https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/mlb/former-white-sox-pitcher-bobby-jenks-dies-at-44-team-announces, https://www.keloland.com/sports/sports-illustrated/184b53a4/bobby-jenks-closer-for-2005-white-sox-who-became-all-star-dies-at-44].