“White Sox Unveil Stunning Tribute to Pope Leo XIV: Celebrating His Historic World Series Appearance”

CHICAGO (AP) — A special new tribute has been unveiled at the home of the Chicago White Sox: Section 140, Row 19, Seat 2. This is where Father Bob, now known as Pope Leo XIV, sat during Game 1 of the 2005 World Series.

The team introduced a graphic installation that highlights this historic moment. The artwork features Pope Leo XIV waving, alongside an image from the game showing him with his friend Ed Schmit and Schmit’s grandson, Eddie.

Brooks Boyer, the Sox’s marketing chief, shared that they plan to mark the pope’s seat at the stadium. “It’s a unique part of our history. Fans will want to see it,” he said.

On May 8, Robert Prevost made history by becoming the first U.S. pope. Friends and family confirm he’s a White Sox fan. He watched the World Series opener with Ed Schmit, who tragically passed away in 2020. The Sox won that game against the Houston Astros 5-3, eventually achieving a four-game sweep for the championship.

Eddie Schmit, now 25 and involved in his family’s day-care business, described the future pope as a genuinely kind person. He mentioned, “It’s great that people are focusing on the White Sox, but it should also celebrate what kind of person the pope is. He’s done incredible work helping those in need around the world.”

Father Bob and Ed bonded over their time at a Catholic high school on Chicago’s South Side. Nick Schmit, Ed’s son, still holds the season ticket for the pope’s seat.

Ed had always joked with Father Bob, saying he would one day be pope. Ed’s daughter, Heidi Skokal, recalled a touching moment before her father passed away. “Father Bob made sure to talk to him. My dad said, ‘I know you’re going to be the next pope. I may not be here to see it, but I’ll be watching.’ And I believe he is,” she said.

This connection between the White Sox and the new pontiff has been embraced by fans. The team even sent a jersey and hat to the Vatican after the announcement. Some fans have taken it a step further, dressing up as the pope at games and sporting T-shirts that celebrate their unique fan connection.

Boyer made it clear: “The pope is always invited back. We’ll happily reserve his spot in Section 140. Who knows? Maybe he’ll even throw out a first pitch one day.”

This connection highlights how sports and faith can come together in unexpected ways, bringing joy to fans and a cherished legacy.



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