Bobby Jenks, a World Series champion launcher who starred in the Chicago White Sox and Boston’s red socks, revealed on Saturday that he is being treated by stomach cancer.
Jenks talked about his illness with MLB.com while he was in a hospital in Portugal. He expressed optimism that he could recover in time to return for a second season as manager of Windy City Thundolts, who play in the Frontier League.
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Chicago pitcher, Bobby Jenks, is congratulated by the Toby Hall receiver after the white socks defeated the 3-1 giants in the AT&T park in San Francisco, on May 17, 2008. (Phil Carter-USA Today Sports)
“Now is the time to do what I have to do to improve and give me more time, however, you want to see it,” he told the website. “I will tell you one thing: I’m not going to die here in Portugal.”
Jenks, 43, played seven years in the majors and was twice all-Star. He made 32 appearances and six rescues in his rookie season in 2005. He helped the white averages to a World Series title at that time.
In 2007, he withdrew 41 consecutive batters, which coincided with a record of a relay pitcher.
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Chicago White Sox launch, Bobby Jenks, against the Orioles in Camden Yards in Baltimore, on July 30, 2006. (James Lang-USA Today Sports)
It had an effectiveness of 3.40 and 173 salvages for Chicago in 329 games for six years. He spent a season with the red socks before getting away from the game.
The White Sox sent their good wishes to Jenks on social networks.
Boston’s Red Sox launch, Bobby Jenks, throws against the Philadelphia, June 28, 2011. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, Archive)
“We are with you, Bobby Jenks,” the team wrote on an Instagram post.
