Bobby Jenks, a two-time MLB All-Star and key figure in the Chicago White Sox’s 2005 World Series victory, died on July 4 at age 44. The cause of death was revealed to be Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer, according to sources at MLB.
As reported by Fox News, Jenks had been undergoing treatment in Portugal when he died. He was diagnosed with the disease early in 2025, shortly after losing his home in the Palisades wildfires.
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Web MD states that adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the glands that line the inside of one of the organs. Sometimes it’s called the “cancer of the cavities.”
Adenocarcinoma commonly forms in several different places, like the colon, breasts, stomach, esophagus, lungs, pancreas, or prostate.
According to Fox News, White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf described Jenks as “an iconic member of the White Sox family,” recalling the emotion of that championship moment and Jenks’ profound impact on the organization.
Reinsdorf also stated, “None of us will ever forget that ninth inning of Game 4 in Houston, all that Bobby did for the 2005 World Series champions and for the entire Sox organization during his time in Chicago. He and his family knew cancer would be his toughest battle, and he will be missed as a husband, father, friend, and teammate. He will forever hold a special place in all our hearts.”
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MLB also states that Jenks was known for his imposing presence and 102 mph fastball. He quickly endeared himself to fans and made his mark as one of Chicago’s most reliable closers. He earned All-Star selections in 2006 and 2007, recording 81 saves over those two seasons. In 2007, he tied a Major League record by retiring 41 consecutive batters.
: Bobby Jenks #52 of the Boston Red Sox watches the action during the game against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field on April 5, 2011 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Indians defeated the Red Sox 3-1.
Jenks pitched for the White Sox from 2005 to 2010, finishing with a 3.40 ERA and 173 saves in 329 appearances, second only to Bobby Thigpen in franchise history.
He finished his MLB career with the Boston Red Sox in 2011, retiring with 173 saves and 351 strikeouts in 348 games.
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After baseball, Jenks managed the Windy City ThunderBolts in 2024, remembered by players for his fun and supportive approach.
The White Sox plan to honor Jenks and the 2005 World Series team on July 11. Former White Sox manager is quoted as saying in a recent MLB article that, “Everyone has a favorite story about Bobby, so the 2005 reunion will be a great opportunity to get together with all his teammates and coaches and relive some of our greatest memories of him.”
According to MLB, Jenks had been living in Portugal to be closer to his wife’s family. He is survived by his wife, Eleni Tzitzivacos, their two children, Zeno and Kate, and his four children from a prior marriage, Cuma, Nolan, Rylan, and Jackson.
Beloved MLB Pitcher’s Cause of Death Released After He Dies at 44 first appeared on Men’s Journal on Jul 6, 2025