The Chicago White Sox's Pope Leo XIV hat giveaway expanded from 2,500 to 40,000 hats due to overwhelming demand. Marketing chief Brooks Boyer noted the event's rapid growth, stating they 'couldn't remember anything where we had to put it to 40,000.' Manager Will Venable expressed excitement about 'Pope Night,' highlighting the pope's fandom. Over 40,615 hats were prepared for the game against the Cincinnati Reds. Lines formed hours before gates opened, indicating massive interest. Boyer humorously hoped Pope Leo would 'know about it.'

The promotion tied to Pope Leo's connection to Chicago and the White Sox. Boyer mentioned reports of the pope following team activities. The event became a cultural moment, blending religious and sports fandom. No other promotion matched its scale, with tickets selling out swiftly.

Boyer emphasized the uniqueness of the campaign. The giveaway aimed to celebrate Pope Leo's identity as a Sox fan. Venable called it a chance to 'celebrate the pope and his fandom.' The event’s success underscored the team’s ability to leverage unexpected themes for engagement.