Former White Sox Closer Bobby Jenks Battles Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Lisbon, Portugal — Former Major League Baseball closer Bobby Jenks is currently battling Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer, while also coping with the loss of his Pacific Palisades home in a recent fire. The 38-year-old athlete is receiving treatment at a hospital near his wife’s family home in Portugal, according to reports by Scott Merkin of MLB.com.

Jenks first experienced health issues last October when he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. Subsequent complications included additional blood clots in his lungs and a significant loss of energy, prompting further medical examinations that revealed a tumor in his chest.

Reflecting on his diagnosis, Jenks commented, “You know, the shit I was doing in my 20s and early 30s, no normal person would have survived. So, in one way, I’m grateful to be alive. In another way, I’m not surprised this happened.” He emphasized the importance of nutrition and self-care, stating, “It goes to show you have to take care of yourself from top to bottom with nutrition and exercise and having a good daily plan.”

The cancer has reportedly spread to various parts of his body, including his stomach lining, lower back, and hips. Jenks is currently undergoing radiation treatment aimed at shrinking the tumor, which has caused severe digestive issues due to a rupture.

His treatment plan is complex, especially as he is also on blood thinners, complicating efforts to manage the bleeding. Nevertheless, Jenks maintains a positive outlook on his recovery. “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,” he remarked. “I’m not going to die here in Portugal.”

Jenks played seven seasons in the majors, predominantly with the Chicago White Sox, where he gained recognition for his role as closer during their 2005 World Series victory. He was named to two All-Star teams and ranks third all-time in saves for the franchise, finishing his career with 173 saves and a 3.53 ERA.

After retiring from professional play, Jenks managed the Grand Junction Rockies to a Pioneer League championship in 2022 and has ambitions to return to managing the Windy City Thunderbolts in 2025. In July, the White Sox are set to hold a 20-year reunion of their World Series winning team, an event Jenks hopes to attend.

On behalf of the Sox On 35th community, we wish Jenks strength and resilience as he navigates this challenging chapter in his life. For more detailed coverage, visit MLB.com.