Grinder Ball Rule #45: Fight like it’s the bottom of the 9th.
Today, the White Sox and Chicago White Sox Charities announced a special initiative, Grinder Ball Rule #45, inviting fans to show support alongside 2005 World Series Champion Bobby Jenks in his fight against cancer, while also directing the proceeds to one of his favorite local charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI).
As part of the initiative, the White Sox are selling t-shirts with the aforementioned “Grinder Ball Rule #45” on them, a call-back to the team’s “Grinder Ball Rules” that were popularized during the team’s 2005 World Series run and subsequent seasons. The T-Shirts are on sale now for $30 and can be purchased online or at the Charities Corner in Section 154 at Rate Field, while supplies last. As mentioned, all proceeds will benefit RMHC-CNI. Fans also have the option to purchase a t-shirt with an additional donation to RMHC-CNI for $45 – a nod to Jenks’ White Sox number.
Per the White Sox’ official press release, RMHC-CNI’s mission is to provide essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare. A cause close to the heart for the two-time All-Star, fan-favorite pitcher and father of six throughout his big-league career, the funds raised will provide critical housing and support services for families with children undergoing treatment for cancer and other serious illnesses and injuries.
Jenks had the following to say about the initiative:
“My family and I are so humbled by the response and support we have received. I want to turn this news into a positive and powerful source of support for families who are dealing with cancer too. During my time in Chicago, I visited Ronald McDonald House, and it means so much to me and my family to use my situation to help others who are also in the fight against cancer. My goal is to get back to Chicago this summer and spend time with my teammates, Ronald McDonald House families and White Sox fans.”
Over seven seasons with the White Sox and Red Sox, Jenks amassed 173 saves, helping lead Chicago to a historic World Series Championship in 2005 and earning All-Star selections in 2006 and 2007. Also in 2007, Jenks tied a major league record by retiring 41 consecutive batters. In 2024, Jenks completed his first season as the manager of the Windy City Thunderbolts in Crestwood, Illinois.
Earlier this year, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, and has been undergoing treatment in Portugal, where he is living this offseason with his family.
You can buy your t-shirt online HERE.
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Featured Image: Chicago White Sox/X
