ESPN is facing backlash for its social media post about the death of Bobby Jenks, a former Chicago White Sox closer who died after battling stomach cancer. The post’s phrasing, which referred to him as ‘being on the roster,’ sparked controversy among former players and fans.
Jenks, 44, was a two-time All-Star with the Chicago White Sox and a key figure in the team’s 2005 World Series victory. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes, with many remembering his contributions to the team and his role in ending the franchise’s 88-year championship drought. However, the language used in ESPN’s post has sparked controversy, with some feeling that it was insensitive to the circumstances of his passing.
Former players like A.J. Pierzynski and Doug Mientkiewicz took issue with the post, criticizing its tone and phrasing. They felt that the reference to Jenks being ‘on the roster’ was not appropriate in the context of his passing. The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the way news of a player’s death is communicated, especially in the context of a sport where emotions run high.
ESPN has not yet responded to the criticism, but the controversy has sparked a broader discussion about the importance of thoughtful language in such situations. The company’s social media presence is a key part of its engagement strategy, and the incident has raised questions about the responsibility of media outlets to handle sensitive content with care.
Jenks was a fifth-round pick in 2000 out of high school, made his MLB debut in 2005 and immediately burst onto the scene. In 32 games, he pitched to a 2.75 ERA and struck out 11.4 batters per nine. Because of his rapid success, he earned the closer’s role ahead of the postseason. He appeared in all four games of that Fall Classic and got the final out that snapped the Sox’s 88-year championship drought.
He retired after the 2011 season, spending six of his seven seasons in Chicago and the other with the Boston Red Sox. Jenks finished his career with a 3.53 ERA and 351 strikeouts. His passing has prompted a wave of tributes from fans and former teammates, with many remembering his contributions to the game and the impact he had on the White Sox organization.
The incident has raised questions about the role of media in shaping public memory and how news outlets handle sensitive topics. While ESPN’s post was intended to inform and honor Jenks, the way it was phrased has sparked controversy, highlighting the need for greater care and sensitivity in such situations.