Pope Leo XIV, elected in 2025, was presented with a baseball that marked the last out of Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, the championship that clinched the Chicago White Sox’s first title in 88 years. The relic was handed to the pontiff by former White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski, who recalled the moment as a full‑circle experience linking the Pope’s youthful Chicago upbringing to his current role.
A Lifetime of Chicago Sports Loyalty
Growing up on the South Side, the future pope — then known as Robert Prevost or "Father Bob" — attended the 2005 World Series opener alongside family and friends. His allegiance to the White Sox has persisted through decades of papal life, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by fans and teammates alike.
Since his ascent to the papacy, the pontiff has received several sports‑related tokens, including a White Sox jersey autographed by longtime star Paul Konerko and a bat gifted by Hall of Famer Nellie Fox. In a lighter vein, he was also given a custom Chicago Bears jersey by Vice President JD Vance and a Chicago Bulls jersey bearing the number 14 and the name "Pope Leo" from longtime Bulls broadcaster Chuck Swirsky.
A Papal Tribute at the Ballpark
The White Sox have announced plans to honor Pope Leo XIV during their August 11 matchup against the Cincinnati Reds. Fans in attendance will receive special pope‑themed hats, turning the stadium into a unique convergence of faith, baseball tradition, and Chicago identity.