Early Career & Rise with the White Sox
Robert Scott Jenks, born March 14, 1981, in Mission Hills, California, made his MLB debut on July 6, 2005, after being drafted by the Angels in 2000 and claimed off waivers by Chicago in late 2004.
A towering, powerful right-hander, he swiftly earned the role of closer. Over six seasons with the Chicago White Sox (2005–2010), he recorded 173 saves in 341⅔ innings, making him the franchise's second all-time leader in saves.
Career Highlights & Impressive Stats
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MLB Stats: 16–20 win-loss, 3.53 ERA, 351 strikeouts, 173 saves.
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All-Star Appearances: 2006, 2007.
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Historic Record: Retired 41 consecutive batters in 2007, matching a major-league record.
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World Series Champion: Key force in the 2005 World Series, setting up four postseason saves, including the clincher in Game 4 against Houston.
Later Playing Years
Jenks finished his MLB career in 2011 with the Boston Red Sox, contributing in 19 relief appearances.
Managerial Career
After retiring, he transitioned to coaching, leading the Grand Junction Rockies to a Pioneer League championship and being named Manager of the Year in 2022. He later managed the Windy City ThunderBolts before stepping away due to health in early 2025.
Bobby Jenks’s Tragic Battle and Death
In early 2025, Jenks was diagnosed with Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer, which had metastasized. Despite treatment in Portugal and fighting spirit, he passed away on July 4, 2025, in Sintra, at the age of 44.
He is survived by his wife Eleni Tzitzivacos, their two children, and four others from a previous marriage. Tributes from White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf and teammates highlighted his iconic contributions, including that unforgettable ninth inning in Game 4 of the 2005 World Series.
Legacy: The Cobra’s Lasting Impact
Bobby Jenks wasn’t just a closer—he was a Chicago baseball icon. A flame-throwing presence, he routinely hit 100+ mph, morphed from rookie to fan-favorite, and helped end the White Sox's 88-year title drought.
Even in retirement, his passion for the game shone through coaching young players. His perseverance through illness, even rebuilding life after losing his home and memorabilia in California wildfires, spoke to his deep character and resilience.
Quick Career Snapshot
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| MLB Seasons | 7 (2005–2011) |
| Saves | 173 (2nd in White Sox history) |
| ERA | 3.53 |
| Strikeouts | 351 |
| All-Star | 2× (2006, 2007) |
| World Series Titles | 1 (2005) |
| Record Streak | Retired 41 batters consecutively |
| Managerial Honors | 2022 Pioneer League Manager of the Year |
Honoring Bobby Jenks
Bobby Jenks will be remembered not only for his blazing fastball and clutch postseason dominance but for his mentorship, courage, and tri during his final seasons. His legacy spans the mound, the clubhouse, and the dugout, leaving an indelible impact on the White Sox and the game of baseball.
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