In a city split by baseball loyalties, the recent appointment of a Chicago-born pope has ignited playful controversy concerning whether he supports the Chicago Cubs or the White Sox.
Papal Allegiances: Cubs vs. Sox in the Windy City
Papal Allegiances: Cubs vs. Sox in the Windy City
The Chicago-born pope sparks rivalry debate among baseball fans over his true loyalties.
In Chicago, the debate surrounding allegiance to baseball teams is as intense as it is personal. The recent elevation of a local, now-pope, has led to a flurry of speculation about his baseball loyalties, particularly whether he cheers for the Cubs or the Sox.
In general, the North Side identifies with the Chicago Cubs, home to Wrigley Field, while the South Siders champion the Chicago White Sox, playing from Rate Field. Suburban fans often straddle these loyalties, but clear divisions foster spirited rivalry, with each side eager to claim the pope as one of their own.
The Chicago Cubs organization initially remained coy, with a spokesperson declining to confirm the pope's preferences. Nonetheless, Tom Ricketts, the team’s executive chairman, enthusiastically extended an invitation to the new pontiff to enjoy a game at Wrigley Field, suggesting he could even partake in singing the iconic “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” A playful display at Wrigley Field later declared the pope a Cubs supporter, kindling excitement among some fans.
However, in an unexpected twist, the pope’s brother, John Prevost, set the record straight during an interview with WGN. Prevost unequivocally affirmed that the pope has never harbored any allegiance to the Cubs, stating for all to hear, “He was always a Sox fan.”
As these friendly rivalries play out, it’s clear that in Chicago, the pope's identity will continue to intertwine with the storied legacy of baseball in the city.
Julie Bosman serves as the Chicago bureau chief for The Times, providing insight and coverage of the Midwest's diverse stories and events.
