Bobby Jenks, the former Chicago White Sox pitcher and 2005 World Series champion, has tragically passed away at the age of 44 after a courageous battle with adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer. His death was confirmed by Major League Baseball on July 4, 2025, while he was receiving treatment in Sintra, Portugal. Jenks is survived by his second wife, Eleni Tzitzivacos, their children Zeno and Kate, and four children from his previous marriage to Adele Romkee: Cuma, Nolan, Rylan, and Jackson.
The Chicago White Sox shared the news of Jenks’ passing via X (formerly Twitter), expressing their sorrow over the loss of an “iconic member of the White Sox family.” Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf reflected on Jenks’ significant contributions to the team, particularly during the 2005 World Series, where he delivered a scoreless ninth inning against the Houston Astros in Game Four, helping to end an 88-year championship drought for the franchise.
“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,” Reinsdorf said. He added, “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.”
Former White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen also expressed his grief, calling Jenks “one of [his] all-time favorite players.” He reminisced about their shared experiences, particularly the moment he called for Jenks during the World Series. “I loved that man. This is a very sad day for everyone involved with the White Sox,” Guillen stated. “Everyone has a favorite story about Bobby, so the 2005 reunion will be a great opportunity to get together with all his teammates and coaches and relive some of our greatest memories of him.”
Jenks’ illustrious career in Major League Baseball included notable achievements such as holding the record for retiring 41 consecutive batters and being named a two-time All-Star. He played for the White Sox from 2005 to 2010 before finishing his career with the Boston Red Sox in 2011. After retiring, he took on roles as a pitching coach and general manager for the Grand Junction Rockies in MLB’s Pioneer developmental league, as well as coaching for the Princeton WhistlePigs and the Windy City ThunderBolts.
In February 2025, Jenks publicly announced his diagnosis during an interview with MLB.com from his hospital bed in Portugal. He revealed that doctors had discovered a tumor in his chest following a CT scan, which later spread to his stomach lining, lower back, hips, and bones. “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 stated at the time. “I’ll tell you one thing: I’m not going to die here in Portugal.”
Jenks faced numerous challenges during his illness, including the loss of his home in the Pacific Palisades Fire in January, where he managed to save only his World Series ring. “I’ve got one suitcase left to my name,” he shared. “It’s all gone. Everything else I’ve ever done. I have everything, first to first. All those things are irreplaceable.”
As the baseball community mourns the loss of Bobby Jenks, his legacy as a talented pitcher and beloved teammate will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans and fellow players alike. His contributions to the game and the memories he created will be cherished for years to come.