The election of a new Pope usually stirs up a whirlwind of feelings—excitement, anxiety, and cue the questions. Is he conservative? Or maybe liberal? What are his thoughts on immigration or global warming? And what about issues like the Latin Mass or gay marriage?
But the recent election of Pope Leo XIV from Chicago unexpectedly introduced a question not typically posed: Which baseball team does he cheer for?
The first American bishop, Robert F. Plaist, who served in the Order of St. Augustine and worked in Peru and Rome, was elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 and has now been chosen as the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Roman Catholics.
Pope Leo XIV isn’t the first Pope to enjoy sports. Pope Francis was known for his love of Argentine football; however, a Pope with a passion for baseball is a first.
So, what’s the verdict—Cubs or White Sox?
Well, it’s a bit murky. Reports suggest he identifies as a Cubs fan, but his brother seems to point towards a different allegiance. He claims that Leo has a fondness for both teams, creating quite the conundrum.
The two Chicago teams don’t appear eager to resolve the debate anytime soon.
“Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV! Go Chicago! He’s a Cubs fan!” proclaimed the Cubs through their official channels.
The White Sox, not to be outdone, tweeted, “Congrats to Chicago’s own Pope Leo XIV! He’s a Sox fan too!”
In a subsequent statement, the Sox elaborated:
It’s family that knows best. The fandom of Pope Leo XIV seems to bring him closer to the 35th and the Shield. Some matters transcend baseball, but in this instance, I’m proud to represent White Sox fans in the Vatican. He’ll be getting his jersey and cap sent to Rome soon, and he’s always welcome at our ballpark.
Father Burk Master, the Cubs’ official pastor, excitedly suggested that the Pope should celebrate Mass at Wrigley Field. He enthusiastically reminisced about their meeting and even suggested inviting him to throw the first pitch at a game.
Bishop Robert Baron, another Chicagoan, described Pope Leo as capable, prayerful, and someone with substantial experience who might rejuvenate the American Church. Baseball, however, wasn’t on his agenda.
Interestingly, this all unfolds during one of the best seasons for the Cubs in years. They’re currently performing remarkably, aiming to solidify their status among Major League Baseball’s elite and standing at the top of the NL Central.
Perhaps the Pope’s blessing could lead the Cubs to win another World Series, or help the struggling White Sox pull out of their current slump.
Given Pope Leo’s peace-loving demeanor and reputation for unity, he might just claim undying love for both teams equally, like a father might for his children—though the Brewers may not get included in that circle.
