It's well known by now that noted White Sox fan Pope Leo XIV attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, which was won by Chicago en route to sweeping the Astros. And now he has a suitable keepsake from that auspicious occasion.
A.J. Pierzynski, the White Sox catcher for that 2005 squad, tweeted on Thursday that he had enjoyed the opportunity to meet Pope Leo, calling it an "incredible honor." And Pierzynski took the opportunity to gift him the ball from the final out of Game 1, during which the future Pontiff was captured on camera by FOX rooting for Chicago closer Bobby Jenks to finish off the victory.
Pope Leo's affinity for the South Siders has not faded over the decades; he even was pictured rocking a White Sox cap at the Vatican last year. And though the Game 1 ball is likely the best keepsake he's received from his favorite team, his fan wall must be getting crowded, as he's also been gifted a signed Paul Konerko jersey and a bat used by White Sox legend Nellie Fox.
Was the Pope a secret good-luck charm 21 years ago at the Fall Classic? It's difficult to say, but given that the White Sox will enter the weekend in a virtual tie for first place in the AL Central, perhaps they should consider saving him a seat -- and a game ball -- in the event they end up playing October baseball this season.