40,000 Fans Wear Pope Hats as White Sox Lose 5-4

The Chicago White Sox celebrated 'Pope Night' with a unique promotion, giving away 'Pope Hats' to fans in honor of Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native and White Sox fan. Over 40,000 'Pope Hats' were given away to fans, who wore them to show their support for the team and the pope.

The game against the Cincinnati Reds was a sellout, with 40,000 fans in attendance. The White Sox had a strong start, with a 4-0 lead at one point in the game. However, the Reds came back from a four-run deficit to win the game 5-4 in 10 innings.

The 'Pope Hats' were black and green with a White Sox logo on them, and were a popular souvenir among fans. The giveaway was billed as a first-of-its-kind promotion, and drew enthusiastic reactions from fans who embraced the headwear and the connection to one of the team's most famous supporters.

The celebration extended beyond the giveaway, with Sister Mary Jo Sobieck delivering the ceremonial first pitch. The throw veered off target, drawing a lively reaction from the crowd. The band Chitown Popes performed during the pregame festivities, and students from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy joined White Sox players on the field before the game.

## Why it matters The White Sox have not shied away from their connection to Pope Leo XIV since it was revealed that he was a White Sox fan. The team has been averaging 108 losses over the past three seasons, but this year they are vying for the division title. The 'Pope Night' celebration was a unique way for the team to engage with their fans and show their appreciation for the pope's support.

The event also resonated beyond baseball, with fans saying it was special for the whole city of Chicago. Some fans even wondered whether the pope might be following the game from abroad, and hoped that he would watch the game and see the sea of 'Pope Hats' in the stands.

## What happens next The White Sox will continue to fight for the division title, and fans will be watching to see if the team can keep up their momentum. The 'Pope Night' celebration was a fun and unique way for the team to engage with their fans, and it will be interesting to see if the team can build on this momentum in the coming weeks.