Bobby Jenks, the fireballing closer who helped seal the Chicago White Sox’s historic 2005 World Series title, has died at 44. He passed away on July 4 in Sintra, Portugal, following a battle with Stage 4 stomach cancer. “He wasn’t just a pitcher—he was the guy who made fans believe we could finally win it all,” said former White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski.
Bobby Jenks, 2005 World Series Closer, Dead at 44
| Takeaway | Stat |
|---|---|
| World Series saves | 2 (2005 ALDS and World Series clinchers) |
| MLB record | 41 consecutive retired batters (2007) |
| Career saves | 173 (2nd most in White Sox history) |
From Power Arm to World Series Hero
Jenks burst onto the MLB scene in 2005 with a 102 mph fastball and a fearless demeanor. Drafted by the Angels but picked up off waivers by the White Sox, he quickly became a postseason weapon. In the 2005 ALDS and World Series, he earned saves in both clinching games, including the final out of Chicago’s sweep over the Astros.
His performance that October helped the White Sox capture their first championship since 1917—a victory that changed the franchise’s narrative.
Career Peaks and Pain
Jenks was selected to two All-Star teams (2006, 2007) and posted 173 saves over seven MLB seasons. He once retired 41 consecutive batters in 2007, a major league record.
But his powerful arm came with a price. Jenks endured multiple back surgeries, and complications from a 2011 procedure led to a malpractice lawsuit and an early retirement. Still, he stayed close to the game.
A Mentor in the Minors
After retiring, Jenks found a second act in coaching. He led the Grand Junction Rockies to a Pioneer League title and was named Manager of the Year in 2022. Later, he managed the Windy City ThunderBolts, a Frontier League team.
In an interview last year, Jenks shared, “I love coaching these kids. I’m not just teaching baseball—I’m teaching how to fight for what you love.”
Life Beyond the Mound
Jenks and his wife, Eleni Tzitzivacos, had recently relocated to Portugal after losing their California home in wildfires. He was diagnosed with advanced adenocarcinoma in February 2025 and spent his final months surrounded by family.
He is survived by Eleni, their two young children, Zeno and Kate, and four children from a previous marriage: Cuma, Nolan, Rylan, and Jackson.
A Final Salute
The White Sox will honor Jenks during the team’s 2005 championship reunion on July 11 in Chicago. What was meant to be a joyful commemoration now carries a somber note.
Having covered the White Sox as a young reporter in 2005, I still remember the chill of that last strike and the roar that followed. Jenks didn’t just throw gas; he threw heart. He’ll be missed by more than just fans of the South Side.
