Pope Leo XIV and Barack Obama Celebrate Chicago White Sox Playoff Berth
The White Sox, once the league's worst team, have achieved a remarkable turnaround to reach the MLB Playoffs, drawing reactions from prominent fans.
The Chicago White Sox have secured a spot in the MLB Playoffs, marking a historic turnaround after three consecutive seasons of 100 losses. This dramatic shift in fortune has drawn commentary from notable fans, including Pope Leo XIV and former President Barack Obama.
The White Sox are the first team in major league history to reach the postseason following three straight seasons with at least 100 losses. This improbable run comes after Chicago native Robert Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV last year.
Video footage of the newly elected Pope watching the White Sox during the 2005 World Series Game 1 circulated shortly after his papal selection. His brother, John, confirmed the Pope's longstanding allegiance to the team in an interview with WGN-TV, stating, "He was never a Cubs fan... He was always a Sox fan."
When asked by a reporter traveling with him in Paris about the White Sox's turnaround, Pope Leo XIV responded with a smile and a "no comment" before adding, "Great things happen in Chicago."
Former President Barack Obama, also a dedicated White Sox supporter, shared a photo of himself throwing out a first pitch at a team game after their playoff berth was confirmed. He expressed optimism for their postseason journey, writing, "Congrats to my White Sox (and Cubs) on making the playoffs! Let's ride a hot streak all the way to the World Series."
Star slugger Munetaka Murakami, who joined the team from Japan, conveyed the team's collective ambition. "This is what the White Sox is. We come together... and this is not the end. We're going to start from here," Murakami said amidst clubhouse celebrations.
Infielder Miguel Vargas emphasized the significance of the achievement for the team and organization. "This means a lot for us. We've been chasing this moment for a long time. It's special for us. It's special for the whole organization. This is a special group of guys, and this is the most fun we can have," Vargas stated.
The White Sox are still competing for the American League Central division title. They entered a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies just one game behind the Cleveland Guardians.
White Sox manager Will Venable acknowledged the team's accomplishment and expectation. "They know what this is about. This comes with the expectation that this was going to happen, which is really cool," Venable said after the playoff clincher. "They're definitely letting loose right now, we'll have a fun plane ride, but then back to business tomorrow."
