**Chicago White Sox Honor Late Pitcher Bobby Jenks in Emotional Tribute**
The Chicago White Sox faced a poignant moment on Monday night as they played their first home game following the passing of former pitcher Bobby Jenks, who succumbed to cancer at the age of 44. In a heartfelt tribute, the team donned No. 45 patches on their jerseys to honor Jenks, and a moment of silence was observed after a tribute video was shown to fans at Rate Field. The No. 45 patches will remain on the jerseys for the entirety of the 2025 season.
This somber occasion was anticipated as the team sought to pay their respects to Jenks, who had announced his battle with Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer, back in February. He made the announcement from a hospital bed after relocating to Portugal to be closer to his wife’s family.
“We have lost an iconic member of the White Sox family today,” stated White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. “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.”
While Jenks kept details of his condition private, he expressed a desire to participate in the White Sox’s 20th anniversary celebration of their 2005 World Series victory, scheduled for this Friday against the Cleveland Guardians. Jenks had a successful seven-season career in Major League Baseball, with six of those years spent with the White Sox. He made a significant impact during his debut season in 2005, achieving a 2.75 ERA over 32 games and striking out 11.4 batters per nine innings. His reliability on the mound led him to serve as the closer during the team’s World Series run, where he played a crucial role in the White Sox’s sweep of the Houston Astros.
Jenks earned back-to-back All-Star selections in 2006 and 2007, concluding his career with a 3.53 ERA. He also played for the Boston Red Sox before retiring in 2011. Throughout his life, Jenks faced challenges with alcoholism and drug addiction, which contributed to the early end of his career; however, he achieved sobriety in 2012. He is survived by his wife and six children, four of whom are from a previous marriage.
As the White Sox and their fans remember Bobby Jenks, his legacy as a beloved player and a courageous individual will undoubtedly endure.
**FAQ**
**What was Bobby Jenks known for during his baseball career?**
Bobby Jenks was known for his role as a closer for the Chicago White Sox, particularly during their 2005 World Series championship season, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
