Cardinal Blase Cupich presented former Chicago White Sox star Paul Konerko with a jersey signed by Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope and a lifelong White Sox fan. This unique event flipped the usual fan-athlete dynamic, as the pope’s signature on the jersey became a cherished piece for Konerko, symbolizing the deep bond between the religious leader and the baseball team. The jersey, bearing Konerko’s last name and ‘Pope Leo’ above the No. 14, was presented during a special ceremony before a game against the Cleveland Guardians, underscoring the pope’s enduring connection to the team’s storied history.
Pope Leo XIV, whose real name is Robert Prevost, became the first pope from the United States when he was elected in May 2023. A native of Chicago, Prevost’s lifelong passion for the White Sox traces back to the 2005 World Series, where he watched the team clinch their first championship since 1917. His presence at the game was captured on national television, and the moment remains a significant memory for both the team and its fans. The White Sox commemorated this connection by unveiling a special graphic near the seat where Prevost watched the game, featuring a waving Pope Leo XIV alongside a photo from the broadcast.
Prevost’s relationship with the White Sox extends beyond mere fandom. He attended the 2005 World Series opener with Ed Schmit, a long-time season ticket holder and family friend, and the two shared a deep connection through their work at a Catholic high school on Chicago’s South Side. Schmit’s son, Nick, continues to hold the account for the seat where the pope sat during the championship run. The team’s recent efforts to honor the 20th anniversary of the 2005 championship included the debut of uniform patches for late closer Bobby Jenks and a statue of former ace Mark Buehrle, further emphasizing the enduring legacy of the 2005 season and the personal connections that contributed to its success.
Additionally, members of the 2005 World Series team are in Chicago for a weekend celebration marking the 20th anniversary of the championship. The event highlights the lasting impact of the team’s victory and the friendships formed during that historic run. The White Sox’s efforts to honor their past—both through memorials and tributes—reflect the value they place on their history and the people who played a role in making it possible. This gesture by Pope Leo XIV not only celebrates the team’s achievements but also reinforces the personal connections that bridge sports and faith, creating a unique legacy that extends beyond the game itself.