On Thursday afternoon, Chicago's very own Robert Prevost was crowned the next Pope, adopting the moniker Pope Leo XIV, and making a historic mark as the first Pope hailing from the United States. Following a brief flurry of discussions, it now seems that we have definitive word on the new Pope's beloved sports team.
Immediately after Pope Leo XIV's election was announced, media outlets buzzed with speculation, suggesting that the Chicago native and Villanova alumnus harbored a fondness for the Chicago Cubs. However, it transpires that his allegiance in Major League Baseball actually leans towards the team nestled on the city's southern side.
In an exclusive interview with Christian Farr of NBC Chicago, Pope Leo XIV's brother, John Prevost, cleared the air by refuting any prior assertions that his sibling cheered for the Cubs. "The radio got it twisted; it's the Sox," Prevost assured NBC Chicago.
NBC News further substantiated this revelation through a Vatican spokesperson, confirming that indeed, the Pope roots for the White Sox.
Needless to say, the White Sox were elated upon hearing the news, promptly issuing a statement that echoed their delight. "Family knows best, and it appears that Pope Leo XIV's lifelong passion aligns more closely with 35th and Shields," the team proclaimed. "While some matters transcend baseball, we're thrilled to have a White Sox fan represented at the Vatican. A tailored White Sox jersey with his name embroidered on it, accompanied by a matching cap, is already winging its way to Rome. And of course, the Pontiff is always welcome to catch a game at our ballpark."
This development came on the heels of a social media statement by the Cubs, which prematurely declared the new Pope as a Cubs fan. The club even extended an invitation for him to visit Wrigley Field and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame." "Not only would we warmly welcome Pope Leo XIV to Wrigley Field, but he could also lend his voice to 'Take Me Out to the Ballgame.' Furthermore, considering that three of his predecessors have visited Yankee Stadium, including Pope Paul VI who delivered the 1965 'Sermon on the Mound,' we cordially invite the Pontiff to replicate the experience within our Friendly Confines," Chairman Tom Ricketts stated.
Clearly, the earlier announcements had steered off course.
