Bobby Jenks, Ex-Red Sox Pitcher Who Was Two-Time All-Star, Dies At Age 44

A fiery closer who contributed to the Chicago White Sox winning their first World Series in eighty-eight years has passed away.

Jenks, Bobby

Bobby Jenks lost his fight with stomach cancer and passed away on Friday, July 4. He was forty-four.

After making his Major League debut in 2005, Jenks rose to prominence as one of the game’s most dominant closers.

He pitched in all four of the World Series games against the Houston Astros in October, recording the game-winning out in Game 4 to help Chicago win the title.

Jenks, who was selected to the American League All-Star squad in 2006 and 2007, is well-known for his fastball that reaches speeds of over 100 mph and his dominant presence on the mound. He set a Major League record in 2007 by retiring 41 consecutive batters.

In 2011, Jenks concluded his career with the Boston Red Sox after pitching for the White Sox through 2010.

He had severe health issues off the field after problems from spinal surgery, which finally forced him to retire. He later rose to prominence as a minor league manager and coach.

Jenks was living close to relatives in Sintra, Portugal, when he passed away. His four children and wife, Eleni, survive him.