Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff raised in the United States, has surprised observers with his ardent support for the Chicago White Sox, a devotion that blends his personal history with the universal language of sport.
Baseball as a Spiritual Metaphor
His fascination became evident when he attended two World Series games in 2005, cheering from the stands while wearing a White Sox cap, and he has spoken publicly about keeping abreast of the team’s progress amid his papal responsibilities.
In August 2025, Father Tom McCarthy, a Chicago priest, presented the Pope with a custom‑made "pope hat" during an audience, a gesture that was celebrated by the White Sox with a special "pope hat" night at their stadium, complete with a mural honoring the pontiff’s affection for the franchise.
The White Sox have turned a franchise that endured a record‑breaking 121‑loss season into a division champion, clinching first place in the AL Central and reviving hopes that the team’s resurgence reflects the perseverance the Pope often cites in his homilies.
For Pope Leo XIV, the rhythms of the game echo spiritual lessons of patience, teamwork, and fortitude; he has likened the long wait for a championship to the patience required in faith, suggesting that both realms demand steadfast commitment.
The pontiff’s hinted intention to visit the United States later this year has sparked speculation that he might attend a White Sox game at Wrigley Field, creating a symbolic moment that would unite the Catholic Church and America’s beloved pastime.