Remembering Jim Clancy and Bobby Jenks & The Inspirational Career of Jim Abbott - The Sports Lunatics
- shawnlavignemedia
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
In this week’s edition of The Sports Lunatics, Shawn and Howie reflect on the lives and legacies of two impactful pitchers who recently passed away, and dive into the remarkable story of one of baseball’s most inspirational figures.
Remembering Jim Clancy: A Blue Jays Original
Jim Clancy, one of the foundational arms of the Toronto Blue Jays, passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 69. A member of the original 1977 expansion team, Clancy spent 12 seasons with the Blue Jays, becoming a fixture in their rotation and a symbol of durability in an era defined by workhorse starters.
Clancy’s legacy is one of grit, consistency, and loyalty. He was the only player to appear in at least one game for the Blue Jays in each of their first 12 seasons.
Farewell to Bobby Jenks: The Fireballer Who Closed Out History
Bobby Jenks, the hard-throwing closer who helped the Chicago White Sox end their 88-year championship drought in 2005, died on July 4, 2025, in Sintra, Portugal, after a battle with stomach cancer. He was just 44.
Jenks was known for his 100+ mph fastball and larger-than-life presence on the mound. Off the field, he was a beloved teammate and mentor, remembered as a “big teddy bear” by those who knew him.
Spotlight: Jim Abbott’s Story Told in ESPN’s “Southpaw”
Shawn and Howie also discuss ESPN’s powerful new E60 documentary, Southpaw – The Life and Legacy of Jim Abbott, which premiered July 13. Abbott, born without a right hand, defied expectations to become a Major League pitcher—and on September 4, 1993, he threw a no-hitter for the Yankees against Cleveland.
Abbott’s story transcends baseball. It’s a testament to resilience, ingenuity, and the power of representation. As Shawn and Howie note, Southpaw isn’t just about a no-hitter—it’s about rewriting what’s possible.
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