Jenks soaks up All-Star pizazz

SAN FRANCISCO – The task of signing every American League All-Star practice jersey was more of an honor for Chicago White Sox closer Bobby Jenks.

“This is as just as much fun as the first one I went to,” Jenks said Tuesday after signing a stack of jerseys before the All-Star Game. “I’m a little more comfortable because I know where I’m at and know how to prepare for everything.”

Jenks, who didn’t play, wasn’t taking his second trip for granted.

“Looking around this room, it’s nothing but superstars,” Jenks said as Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana of Minnesota walked by. “It’s an awesome feeling.”

Jenks, a former Spirit Lake, Idaho, resident, also was feeling better after coping with flu-like symptoms that nagged other White Sox players.

Jenks, 26, might not have been here without the Sox converting him to a closer after claiming him on waivers from the Los Angeles Angels in December 2004.

“Now that I’m here, I never want to be a starter again,” Jenks said. “It’s funny how it works out. It was the best thing that could have happened to me.”