Bobby Jenks Battles Stomach Cancer: A Look at His MLB Legacy and Current Fight

Former Chicago White Sox All-Star closer Bobby Jenks is undergoing treatment for stomach cancer. Learn about his inspiring journey and MLB legacy.

Bobby Jenks, a two-time All-Star closer and World Series champion with the Chicago White Sox, is currently being treated for stomach cancer. Jenks shared his condition from a hospital bed in Portugal during an interview with MLB.com on Saturday. The White Sox organization quickly sent their best wishes via social media, posting, "We stand with you, Bobby Jenks," on Instagram.

A Storied Career

Jenks, 43, has had an illustrious career in Major League Baseball (MLB). He played a pivotal role in the Chicago White Sox's 2005 World Series victory, saving four games in six appearances during the postseason. His performance earned him All-Star honors in both 2006 and 2007, during which he saved a total of 81 games. Over the next three seasons, he averaged more than 28 saves per year. In 2007, Jenks retired 41 consecutive batters, matching a record for a reliever.

Current Endeavors

Despite his health challenges, Jenks is determined to recover and return for a second season as manager of the minor league Windy City Thunderbolts in Crestwood, Illinois. "Now it's time to do what I got to do to get myself better and get myself more time, however you want to look at it," Jenks told MLB.com. "I'll tell you one thing: I'm not going to die here in Portugal."

A Legacy of Resilience

Jenks' career spanned six seasons with the White Sox, during which he saved 173 games. He finished his MLB career with 19 appearances in 2011 with the Boston Red Sox. His journey from a young pitcher to a World Series champion and now to a manager battling cancer is a testament to his resilience and determination.

Support from the Baseball Community

The baseball community has rallied around Jenks, with fans and fellow players expressing their support on social media. His story continues to inspire many, reminding us of the strength and courage required to face such a formidable opponent.

Looking Forward

As Jenks focuses on his treatment and recovery, the baseball world watches and waits, hopeful for his return to the sport he loves. His legacy as a player and his ongoing fight against cancer serve as a powerful reminder of the impact he has had both on and off the field.

What to Read Next

Rising Stars in MLB: Andrew Painter and Emerging Prospects to Watch in 2025
MLB

Rising Stars in MLB: Andrew Painter and Emerging Prospects to Watch in 2025

Discover the top MLB prospects, including Andrew Painter, who are making waves in 2025. Learn how these rising stars could impact fantasy baseball leagues.

Colorado Rockies 2025: A Historic Low in MLB Performance
MLB

Colorado Rockies 2025: A Historic Low in MLB Performance

An in-depth analysis of the Colorado Rockies' challenging 2025 MLB season, comparing their performance to historic lows in baseball history.

Luke Jackson Injured by 111-MPH Comebacker: Rangers' Closer Exits Game in Ninth Inning
MLB

Luke Jackson Injured by 111-MPH Comebacker: Rangers' Closer Exits Game in Ninth Inning

Texas Rangers' closer Luke Jackson exits after being hit by a 111-mph comebacker in the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies.

Jake Burger Returns to Texas Rangers: A Boost for the Struggling Offense
MLB

Jake Burger Returns to Texas Rangers: A Boost for the Struggling Offense

Jake Burger rejoins the Texas Rangers from Triple-A, aiming to revitalize the team's struggling offense as they face the Colorado Rockies.

Expert MLB Fantasy Baseball Lineup Advice and Betting Tips for Tuesday's Games
MLB

Expert MLB Fantasy Baseball Lineup Advice and Betting Tips for Tuesday's Games

Get expert MLB fantasy baseball lineup advice and betting tips for Tuesday's games. Optimize your bets and fantasy lineups with detailed pitcher rankings and analysis.

Dodgers Strengthen Outfield with Acquisition of Steward Berroa from Blue Jays
MLB

Dodgers Strengthen Outfield with Acquisition of Steward Berroa from Blue Jays

The Los Angeles Dodgers have bolstered their outfield by acquiring Steward Berroa from the Toronto Blue Jays in a cash deal.

Top MLB Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 8: High-Ceiling Players to Watch
MLB

Top MLB Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 8: High-Ceiling Players to Watch

Discover the top MLB waiver wire pickups for Week 8, featuring high-ceiling players like Byron Buxton and Jake Burger. Enhance your fantasy baseball roster with these strategic additions.

2025 MLB Trade Deadline: Key Factors and Team Strategies Unveiled
MLB

2025 MLB Trade Deadline: Key Factors and Team Strategies Unveiled

Explore the pivotal factors and emerging team strategies shaping the 2025 MLB trade deadline, including the rise of opportunist teams and market dynamics.

Ultimate MLB Fantasy Baseball and Betting Guide for Monday: Expert Picks, Lineup Tips, and Odds
MLB

Ultimate MLB Fantasy Baseball and Betting Guide for Monday: Expert Picks, Lineup Tips, and Odds

Get expert advice on setting your MLB fantasy baseball lineups and placing bets for Monday's games. Includes pitcher rankings, hitting notes, and betting insights.

Unveiling the Worst Records in MLB History: A Deep Dive into Historic Lows
MLB

Unveiling the Worst Records in MLB History: A Deep Dive into Historic Lows

Explore the teams with the worst records in MLB history, including the Chicago White Sox's recent struggles and historic lows.

Ultimate MLB Sunday Guide: Fantasy Lineup Strategies & Betting Insights
MLB

Ultimate MLB Sunday Guide: Fantasy Lineup Strategies & Betting Insights

Get expert advice on setting your fantasy baseball lineup and making informed MLB bets for Sunday's games. Includes pitcher rankings, hitter insights, and betting tips.

Casey Mize's Hamstring Strain: A Setback for the Detroit Tigers' Pitching Lineup
MLB

Casey Mize's Hamstring Strain: A Setback for the Detroit Tigers' Pitching Lineup

Detroit Tigers' pitcher Casey Mize is placed on the 15-day injured list due to a left hamstring strain, impacting the team's pitching strategy.

White Sox Bolster Bullpen with Yoendrys Gomez, Release Greg Jones
MLB

White Sox Bolster Bullpen with Yoendrys Gomez, Release Greg Jones

The Chicago White Sox have claimed right-hander Yoendrys Gomez from the Dodgers and released outfielder Greg Jones to strengthen their bullpen.

MLB Closers in Crisis: Can Elite Relievers Rebound from Early Season Struggles?
MLB

MLB Closers in Crisis: Can Elite Relievers Rebound from Early Season Struggles?

Explore the early-season struggles of MLB's top closers like Emmanuel Clase and Devin Williams, and analyze their potential for a mid-season rebound.

St. Louis Cardinals Roster Update: Iván Herrera Returns, Luken Baker Sent to Triple-A
MLB

St. Louis Cardinals Roster Update: Iván Herrera Returns, Luken Baker Sent to Triple-A

The St. Louis Cardinals have activated catcher Iván Herrera from the injured list and sent Luken Baker to Triple-A Memphis.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.