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Pope Leo XIV Receives Game-Used 2005 World Series Ball from Former White Sox Catcher A.J. Pierzynski

Doric SamJun 25, 2026

Former Chicago White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski had a cool moment with the most recognizable fan of his old franchise.

Pierzynski gifted the last out ball from Game 1 of the 2005 World Series to Pope Leo XIV, who is a Chicago native. The White Sox won the World Series title that year after sweeping the Houston Astros for their first championship in 88 years.

Pierzynski was one of the faces of the White Sox during his tenure with the franchise from 2005 to 2012. He has now transitioned to a broadcasting career and is one of the hosts of the Foul Territory podcast.