ESPN Post About Bobby Jenks’ Death Draws Backlash: ‘Should Be Ashamed and Embarrassed’
ESPN is facing sharp criticism after its social media post about former MLB pitcher Bobby Jenks, who recently passed away, was deemed insensitive by fans and former players alike. The backlash erupted shortly after ESPN published a headline and caption that many felt failed to honor Jenks’ legacy while leaning heavily on his struggles off the field.
The now-deleted post reportedly referenced Jenks’ battles with addiction and injuries more prominently than his career achievements. Many took issue with what they saw as an imbalanced portrayal, especially in a moment of mourning.
Fans flooded the comments, calling the post “tone-deaf,” “disrespectful,” and “a cheap attempt at engagement.” One viral comment read: “The man just died. You should be ashamed and embarrassed.” Others pointed out how little ESPN focused on Jenks’ contributions to baseball, particularly his role in the Chicago White Sox’s 2005 World Series championship.
Former teammates and sports journalists also chimed in, expressing disappointment in how ESPN handled the tribute. “This is not how you remember a champion,” tweeted one former player.
In response to the backlash, ESPN issued a brief statement: “We regret the way our post was received and have taken it down. We apologize to the Jenks family and his fans for any distress caused.”
Bobby Jenks was a two-time All-Star known for his power pitching and key performances in the 2005 postseason. After retiring, he faced numerous health and personal struggles, many of which he spoke about openly in efforts to raise awareness.
For many, the controversy surrounding ESPN’s post is a reminder of the media’s responsibility in covering sensitive stories with compassion and respect. As tributes continue to pour in across the baseball world, fans are choosing to remember Jenks for his resilience, achievements, and the lasting impact he made both on and off the field.
