Bobby Jenks, the former MLB star who helped the Chicago White Sox win the 2005 World Series, is facing the fight of his life. The 43-year-old pitcher is battling advanced stomach cancer from a hospital bed in Portugal.
It’s a shocking turn for the two-time All-Star, who was known for his blazing fastball and clutch performances.
The news came after Jenks and his family moved to Portugal to be closer to his wife’s family. What started as some health concerns quickly turned serious when doctors found a tumor in his chest.
The situation is tough. The cancer has spread to his stomach lining, bones, lower back, and hips. He’s already dealt with a frightening episode where the tumor ruptured, causing severe stomach problems.
The White Sox, where Jenks became a fan favorite, confirmed he’s battling Stage 4 adenocarcinoma. They quickly showed their support for their former closer.
“I’m not going to die here in Portugal,” Jenks told MLB.com with characteristic determination. “They are not going to put any numbers on it. I wouldn’t even want numbers. You hear stories all the time, ‘Oh, they gave me six months, 25 years ago.’ I don’t buy into that.”
Baseball fans remember Jenks as the rookie who closed out the White Sox’s first World Series victory in 88 years. That moment in 2005 made him an instant Chicago legend.
His numbers tell the story of a dominant closer. Over seven seasons in the majors, he racked up 173 saves with a solid 3.53 ERA. In pressure-packed playoff games, he was even better, posting a remarkable 2.00 ERA.
Jenks last pitched in 2011 for the Boston Red Sox, but his impact on the game – especially in Chicago – lives on. His 100-mph fastball and fearless attitude made him one of baseball’s most exciting closers during his prime.
Now he’s taking on this new challenge with the same fighting spirit that made him successful on the mound.
