CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago White Sox have decided to broaden their celebration of Pope Leo XIV, who hails from Chicago and has been a devoted supporter of the baseball franchise for years.
Team officials revealed Friday their decision to distribute pope-themed caps to every person attending their August 11th matchup with Cincinnati. Initially, these commemorative items were only available to those who had bought special theme night tickets.
“The fans have spoken, and unlike some of our more limited quantity promotions, the White Sox Pope Hat is one we believe all fans should have the opportunity to take home,” Brooks Boyer, the chief revenue and marketing officer for the team, said in a release. “We viewed the promotion as a creative way to celebrate one of the franchise’s most popular fans, and by the overwhelming response we received, White Sox fans certainly agreed.”
The commemorative caps are designed to resemble the Pope’s miter, featuring the team’s sock emblem at the center. Team officials stated that supporters who had previously bought the special tickets will still receive their hat plus one extra item.
The pontiff, who was previously known as Robert Prevost, was present for Chicago’s 2005 World Series opening game versus Houston and witnessed his cherished team defeat the Astros 5-3 during their path to a four-game championship sweep and their first title since 1917.
This past May, the White Sox revealed a graphic display near the seat that honors Pope Leo and that historic moment. The pillar features an image of Pope Leo XIV waving, alongside a photograph from the television coverage showing the future pope seated with close friend Ed Schmit and his grandson, Eddie.
During June, Rate Field held a celebration recognizing his selection as America’s first pope. The following month, during a pre-game tribute to the 2005 championship team, White Sox legend Paul Konerko received a jersey autographed by the pope, presented as a gift from one number 14 to another.
Pope Leo made headlines by breaking Vatican tradition when he wore a White Sox cap last year. This past October, he responded “they lost” to someone who shouted “go Cubs.” Just weeks ago, he gave a thumbs up gesture to a person who called out “God bless the White Sox!”
