Following some playful online debate earlier this month, Pope Leo XIV’s brother confirmed in an interview with ABC7 that the newly elected pontiff is, in fact, a White Sox fan—thanks largely to his South Suburban roots.
In celebration of their holiest fan, the White Sox have unveiled a new mural at Rate Field commemorating the pope’s longtime loyalty.
Immortalizing Pope Leo’s 2005 World Series visit
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost of Dolton, IL, was in the stands at Rate Field for Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, watching the Sox take on the Houston Astros.
The mural now marks the exact seat—section 140—where the future pope took in the historic game, according to multiple reports.
Just next to the mural is a framed custom jersey bearing the name “Pope Leo 14.”
There’s always a seat for the Pope at Rate Field
The Sox have stated that Pope Leo XIV is welcome back to catch another game anytime he likes.
“He has an open invite to throw out a first pitch,” said Brooks Boyer, White Sox executive vice president, chief revenue and marketing officer in a statement obtained by MLB.com. “Heck, maybe we’ll let him get an at-bat.”