Pope Leo XIV sends White Sox a message of support as postseason begins

The White Sox began their postseason with encouragement from a well-known fan: Pope Leo XIV. A letter from the pontiff arrived at Chicago’s Rate Field on Sept. 29, addressed to team owner Jerry Reinsdorf as the Sox prepared to open their Wild Card Series against the Houston Astros.

The message emphasized the value of sports beyond the final score. Leo described athletic competition as an opportunity to learn about sharing, respecting others and taking part in a common experience, rather than pursuing wins above everything else. He expressed hope that the White Sox would help strengthen friendships and bring people together, and offered a blessing to Reinsdorf and his loved ones.

For Chicago fans, the letter adds a community connection to the club’s return to October baseball. Leo, a native of south suburban Dolton, is a White Sox supporter. His message linked that allegiance with a broader wish for people to live and work peacefully together, giving the team’s postseason appearance a significance beyond its results on the field.

The correspondence also followed a celebration earlier in the season. The White Sox held a day of pope-themed activities on Aug. 11, including a giveaway of papal-style hats and a mural painted live. The letter to Reinsdorf was sent in response to that event, connecting the summer ballpark celebration with the start of the playoff schedule.

The Sox opened the series against Houston on Tuesday in their first postseason appearance in five years. Advancing requires two victories in the best-of-three road series. Following the opener, the teams were scheduled to play again Wednesday at 4 p.m., giving Chicago supporters another opportunity to follow the club’s playoff return.