All-Star closer looking to alleviate financial strain in cancer battle
Bobby Jenks, our beloved 2005 World Series hero, now faces an unthinkable battle — one that transcends the physical trials of the baseball field. The former two-time All-Star closer, who enjoyed a successful career with the White Sox and remains one of the franchise’s top closers all-time, is currently grappling with the diagnosis of Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer. But if that weren’t enough, Jenks has also suffered the heartbreaking loss of his home in the recent California wildfires, further compounding the pain and struggle he and his family are enduring.
Jenks, a key figure in the White Sox bullpen during their 2005 World Series run, was known for his impressive fastball and clutch performances. However, his post-baseball life has been anything but easy. After battling various health issues, including a botched back surgery and addiction to painkillers, the former stopper’s most recent challenge —a Stage 4 stomach cancer diagnosis — has been a devastating blow. Cancer, at any stage, is a harsh and overwhelming opponent. It’s one that way too many of us intimately understand. But the Stage 4 diagnosis means that, unfortunately, Jenks is dealing with a particularly advanced form of the disease.
As his body continues to fight this insidious illness, the former MLB star is also reportedly facing a financial strain that many would find hard to comprehend. Various social media posts surfaced today that Jenks has partnered with PastPros, a website that connects fans with their favorite sports icons. The site is working with Bobby and his family to offer a signing event to raise funds for his medical expenses. The money raised will go towards covering Jenks’ mounting medical bills and helping him navigate the costly treatments required to fight his disease.
The good news is Bobby is not facing this battle alone. Apparently, several of his former teammates and coaches have rallied behind him to support the fundraising efforts and will be hosting signings to benefit Jenks and his family. Their involvement is a testament to the strong bond of camaraderie and respect that Jenks cultivated during his time in the big leagues. The support of his colleagues offers Jenks not just financial assistance but also a reminder that he is surrounded by people who care deeply for him, both on and off the field.
If there were ever a time for Jerry Reinsdorf to step up to the plate, this would be it. Known for his loyalty, he has taken care of Bulls and Sox players facing hardships in the past, like Bill Cartwright, Randy Brown, Liam Hendriks, and Jay Williams. Cartwright publicly defends and credits Reinsdorf with helping him regain his voice by getting him access to a specialist when he suffered a fractured larynx and paralysis of his left vocal cord in a Bulls game during the 1993-94 season. When longtime assistant Sheri Berto passed away unexpectedly after a mistake stemming from routine surgery, he supported Berto’s surviving husband and child and named the Bulls training center in her honor. We have not yet heard what, if anything, the White Sox are doing to support Bobby other than the launch of a website last month where fans can send well wishes to Bobby.
For fans and supporters who want to make a difference, participating in the PastPros signing event or sending a message through the White Sox website is an opportunity to show solidarity with a player who gave so much to our fanbase. Fans can visit PastPros to learn more about the upcoming signing event and how they can participate.
In this time of need, it’s clear that Jenks’ fight is one we can all rally behind — because, in the end, we’re all part of his team.