2005 White Sox Reunion Honors Championship, Late Bobby Jenks in Chicago

The Boston Red Sox's significant investments in young players Brayan Bello and Ceddanne Rafaela, through long-term contracts signed before the 2024 season, initially raised doubts due to underwhelming performances. However, their breakout performances in the first half of 2025 have validated these bets, with both players driving the team's recent success and contributing to a 10-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox commemorated the 20th anniversary of their 2005 World Series championship with a reunion at Rate Field, highlighted by the unveiling of a statue of Mark Buehrle and a special jersey presentation to Paul Konerko signed by Pope Leo XIV. The reunion also honored the late Bobby Jenks, with teammates and fans reflecting on the impact of the 2005 team, whose roster overhaul—including key acquisitions like Scott Podsednik, A.J. Pierzynski, Jermaine Dye, Tadahito Iguchi, and Jenks—ended an 88-year championship drought. Players expressed lasting pride and emotional connection to their championship season, with Konerko noting he thinks about the World Series daily. The celebrations underscored the enduring bond between the team and South Side fans, celebrating a transformative era in White Sox history.