Pope Leo XIV: The White Sox Fan Who Connects With Chicago’s South Side

On a late Thursday night, Stanley Brown kept a close watch on the unfolding news about the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, particularly intrigued by reports that the pontiff grew up as a fan of the Chicago White Sox. This detail immediately struck a chord with him.

“Being a White Sox fan means you understand what it’s like to endure hardship,” said Brown, 72, a trustee from Dolton, Illinois, where the pope spent his youth. “No matter how tough the team’s performance, true fans remain loyal. It’s a commitment you don’t easily abandon.”

Chicago’s baseball scene has long been split between two teams: the White Sox on the South Side and the Cubs up north. Both teams have histories marked more by struggles than victories over the past century. The Cubs have often been seen as the more endearing franchise, known for their iconic ballpark, afternoon games, celebrity sing-alongs of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and the hand-operated scoreboard at Wrigley Field.

In contrast, the White Sox play in a less glamorous stadium situated in a tougher neighborhood. Despite this, their supporters boast a fierce pride, especially in recent years.

While the Cubs captured the World Series title more recently, in 2016, and carry a more fashionable reputation, the White Sox have a unique distinction — the pope himself is among their fans.

“That shows he’s genuine,” said Courtney White, who coordinates youth sports in Dolton. “He’s a local from Dolton and a committed White Sox fan. It doesn’t get more authentic than that.”