Full Breakdown
White Sox Honor Pope Leo XIV with a “Pope Hat” Giveaway
8/12/2026, 2:10:29 AM
Event Details and Fan Activities
The Chicago White Sox will distribute a limited-edition “Pope hat” to every fan attending the Tuesday night game against the Cincinnati Reds at Rate Field. The promotion, first announced in April, was expanded to include all ticket holders after strong demand. Pre-game festivities include a Chicago White Sox Charities check presentation to the Midwest Augustinian Province, accepted by Prior Provincial Father Tom McCarthy; a ceremonial first pitch by Sister Mary Jo Sobieck of the Dominican Sisters of Springfield; and a “Take the Field” recognition where students from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy’s Vatican-recognized conclave join the starting lineup. Former pitcher Donn “The Pope” Pall will announce “play ball,” organist Nancy Faust will perform the national anthem, and artist Nick Apple will paint a live mural in the center-field concourse. A “Peace Be With You” greeting, led by Father Tom Hurley and comedian Pat McGann, will be offered to fans throughout the ballpark.
Financial and Charitable Contributions
Chicago White Sox Charities will donate $14,000 in honor of Pope Leo XIV, acknowledging his ties to the Augustinian order and the broader Chicagoland community. Concessions will continue the usual $5 Tuesday promotion and will feature a specialty 24-ounce souvenir cup available on the 100 and 500 levels. Standing-room tickets and commemorative tickets can be purchased through the team’s website or the MLB Ballpark app.
Official Statements
Brooks Boyer, the White Sox chief revenue and marketing officer, explained that the giveaway was intended as a creative celebration of one of the franchise’s most popular fans and that the overwhelming response confirmed its success. He noted that the team expects roughly 40,000 hats to be handed out at each gate entrance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The fans have spoken, and unlike some of our more limited quantity promotions, the White Sox Pope Hat is one we believe all fans should have the opportunity to take home,” — Brooks Boyer, White Sox chief revenue and marketing officer, at the time
