Jenkins made his MLB debut with the Phillies in 1965, but it was his trade to the Chicago Cubs in 1966 that marked the beginning of his rise in professional baseball. With the Cubs, Jenkins quickly established himself as a reliable starting pitcher. His ability to consistently deliver complete games and strikeouts set him apart from many of his contemporaries. In 1967, Jenkins achieved a remarkable feat by recording 20 wins, a milestone he would reach in six consecutive seasons from 1967 to 1972.
The 1971 season was particularly outstanding for Jenkins. He won the National League Cy Young Award, becoming the first Canadian to receive this honor. That year, he posted a 24-13 record, with a 2.77 ERA and 263 strikeouts. Jenkins also completed 30 games, showcasing his endurance and skill on the mound. His performance earned him a place in the All-Star Game, one of three such appearances in his career.
Jenkins' tenure with the Cubs lasted until 1973, after which he was traded to the Texas Rangers. In Texas, he continued to excel, leading the American League in wins with 25 in 1974. His time with the Rangers further solidified his reputation as a workhorse pitcher, capable of handling a heavy workload while maintaining effectiveness.
After a stint with the Boston Red Sox from 1976 to 1977, Jenkins returned to the Rangers in 1978. He continued to perform at a high level, achieving his 3,000th career strikeout in 1982, a testament to his longevity and skill. Jenkins concluded his career with a return to the Cubs, retiring after the 1983 season.
Throughout his career, Jenkins was known for his exceptional control and ability to pitch deep into games. He completed 267 games and struck out 3,192 batters, finishing with a career record of 284-226 and an ERA of 3.34. Jenkins' achievements on the field were recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991, making him the first Canadian to receive this honor.
Beyond his statistics, Jenkins' career was marked by his consistency and durability.
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