The Chicago White Sox received a letter of support from Pope Leo XIV ahead of their playoff opener against the Houston Astros. The pontiff wrote to chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, saying sport can be a "school of life" and hoping the team fosters friendship and solidarity. He invoked the Almighty's blessings on the team and their loved ones.

The letter, dated Sept. 9, responded to the team's Aug. 11 promotion where fans received hats shaped like the Pope's miter with the White Sox logo. Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native and longtime fan, attended the 2005 World Series opener against Houston, watching from Section 140, Row 19, Seat 2 as the White Sox won 5-3 en route to a sweep.

The White Sox visit Houston for Game 1 of the best-of-three AL Wild Card series on Tuesday. The Pope broke Vatican protocol in 2025 by wearing a White Sox cap and has shown support in various ways, including a tribute installation at Rate Field. The team earned a wild card with an 84-78 record after three straight 100-loss seasons. Asked if he had a hand in the turnaround, the pope smiled and said "No comment."