Outrage explodes over ESPN’s shockingly insensitive Bobby Jenks tribute

A recent social media post by ESPN announcing the death of former Major League Baseball closer Bobby Jenks has ignited sharp criticism from fans, former teammates, and media commentators.

In its brief X post, ESPN referred to Jenks as simply “on the roster when the franchise won the 2005 World Series,” a description many felt severely downplayed his pivotal role. Jenks, a two-time All‑Star, played a crucial part in Chicago’s championship run, not just as a member of the team but as its closer—securing key saves in both the ALDS and the World Series. He passed away at age 44 in Sintra, Portugal, after battling adenocarcinoma.

The tone-deaf announcement prompted demands for a more accurate and respectful tribute.

ESPN's post on X draws backlash from fans worldwide

ESPN’s original post on X read:“Bobby Jenks, a two‑time All‑Star pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, who was on the roster when the franchise won the 2005 World Series, died on Friday in Sintra, Portugal, the team announced.” The phrase “on the roster” triggered immediate scorn. Former first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz reacted sharply:“ESPN should be ashamed and embarrassed for writing something like this! ‘Was on the roster’? He was THE CLOSER on a championship winning team. Do some research before you release something. Have some respect! RIP Bobby Jenks condolences to his family and teammates.” Catchers A.J. Pierzynski and Brandon McCarthy likewise voiced their displeasure. Pierzynski emphasized:“He did a whole lot more than just be on the roster! He closed out the World Series!! #RIPBobbyJenks #2005forever.”

Media critics reinforced that this phrasing failed to acknowledge Jenks' performance—he wasn’t merely a rostered player but a dominant closer whose fastball topped 100 mph and whose contribution was indispensable during Chicago’s sweep of Houston.

Beyond “just on the roster”: Jenks’s true impact

As a rookie in 2005, Jenks became the dependable late-inning option, appearing in all four World Series games and securing the final outs in Games 1 and 4. During that postseason run he pitched six games, notching multiple saves—one clincher in the ALDS and two in the Fall Classic—and helping seal Chicago’s series sweep. He finished his career with an impressive 173 saves, two All-Star appearances (2006 and 2007), and a 3.53 ERA.

Beyond his playing days, Jenks went on to coach in the minor leagues, managing teams such as the Grand Junction Rockies and the Windy City ThunderBolts. He was named Manager of the Year in 2022 and remained active in baseball even amid his health struggles.Soon-to-be-held events, such as the 20th‑anniversary celebration of the 2005 White Sox, have taken on a more somber tone following his passing. Former manager Ozzie Guillen and Hall‑of‑Famer Frank Thomas publicly noted the team was “crushed” by the loss, sharing memories of Jenks’s competitive fire and character.The terse wording of ESPN’s announcement sharply contrasted with the significance of Bobby Jenks’s legacy. Describing him as merely “on the roster” prompted a justified outcry for journalistic responsibility and accuracy. Jenks was far more than a nominal team member—he was the closer who delivered historic postseason performances, an All‑Star, a championship cornerstone, and later, a mentor in baseball’s coaching ranks.

His death at 44, following a valiant fight against adenocarcinoma, leaves a void both on and off the field. As tributes continue, the baseball community rightly insists on commemorating Jenks as the impactful athlete, coach, husband, father, and friend he truly was.